LSU vs. Florida State Women’s Basketball Highlights: Tigers Dominate to Reach Sweet 16
In an exhilarating second-round matchup of the 2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament, the No. 3 LSU Tigers delivered a dominant performance to defeat the No. 6 Florida State Seminoles, advancing to the Sweet 16. The game, which was held at Pete Maravich Assembly Center in Baton Rouge, showcased LSU’s offensive firepower and defensive intensity, as the Tigers overwhelmed the Seminoles in an 84-72 victory.
The Tigers were propelled by an all-around team effort, highlighted by stellar performances from their two stars, Angel Reese and Flau’jae Johnson. Reese, one of the nation’s best players, had a standout game, recording 23 points and 15 rebounds, while Johnson contributed 18 points, seven rebounds, and five assists. Together, they were the driving force behind LSU’s successful push to the next round. The Tigers, who have been one of the top teams in the nation throughout the season, further solidified their position as a championship contender with this commanding victory.
Setting the Stage: High Stakes and Big Expectations
The atmosphere in Baton Rouge was electric as LSU fans packed the arena, fully aware that their team’s championship aspirations were on the line. LSU entered the game as the No. 3 seed, with a powerful mix of talent, depth, and coaching led by head coach Kim Mulkey. After a strong regular season, which saw them finish near the top of the SEC standings, the Tigers were determined to make a deep run in the tournament and assert themselves as a national title contender.
On the other side, Florida State came into the game as the No. 6 seed, with an equally strong roster that included standout players like Ta’Niya Latson and Morgan Jones. The Seminoles had been impressive all season, earning a well-deserved place in the tournament’s second round. Florida State had a reputation for a stingy defense and quick transitions, but their offense, particularly their shooting and turnovers, would be tested against LSU’s physicality and depth.
As the game began, it was clear that LSU was ready to take control of the contest from the very start. The Tigers’ ability to dominate in all facets of the game, from defense to offense, would prove too much for the Seminoles to handle.
First Half: LSU Sets the Tone with Dominance
From the opening whistle, LSU asserted itself as the more aggressive team. Florida State struggled to match LSU’s intensity, and the Tigers immediately took advantage. LSU’s defense set the tone early on, as they used their size and length to disrupt Florida State’s offensive flow. LSU was relentless in denying Florida State easy looks, often forcing them into contested shots or turnovers.
Angel Reese, in particular, was a force to be reckoned with in the first half. The junior forward, who is widely regarded as one of the best players in women’s college basketball, imposed her will on both ends of the floor. Reese dominated the boards, snagging crucial offensive and defensive rebounds, while also scoring efficiently in the paint. Her 14 points and 8 rebounds in the first half alone were a testament to her incredible work ethic and skill.
Flau’jae Johnson, LSU’s dynamic sophomore guard, was equally impressive. Johnson’s ability to stretch the floor with her outside shooting, combined with her ability to drive to the basket, made her a nightmare matchup for Florida State’s defenders. In the first half, Johnson scored 12 points and also contributed with key assists, setting up her teammates for open looks. The tandem of Reese and Johnson proved to be a matchup nightmare for Florida State, who had no answers for their combined scoring and rebounding prowess.
As LSU built their lead, Florida State had trouble keeping pace. Despite some solid individual performances from Morgan Jones and Ta’Niya Latson, the Seminoles struggled to find any consistent offensive rhythm. Florida State’s offense became stagnant at times, and LSU’s defense capitalized on the lack of ball movement, turning turnovers into easy transition points.
At halftime, LSU held a commanding 47-30 lead. The Tigers’ combination of suffocating defense and efficient scoring had set the stage for what would be an uphill battle for Florida State in the second half.
Second Half: Florida State’s Fight and LSU’s Poise
Despite the large deficit, Florida State came out in the second half with renewed energy. Head coach Sue Semrau made adjustments, trying to exploit some of LSU’s defensive weaknesses. The Seminoles began to apply more pressure defensively, hoping to force LSU into turnovers and get easy baskets in transition.
Florida State’s efforts began to show as they cut into LSU’s lead midway through the second half. Led by Jones and Latson, the Seminoles went on an 8-0 run that seemed to energize their players and the crowd. Jones knocked down several crucial three-pointers, and Latson, who had been relatively quiet in the first half, started to assert herself offensively.
LSU, however, was unflappable. While Florida State made their push, LSU responded with maturity and poise. Angel Reese, who had already been a dominant presence in the first half, continued to lead by example in the second half. Her post moves were too much for Florida State to handle, and she continued to finish in the paint with ease. Reese also had several key defensive stops and grabbed critical rebounds that helped LSU maintain control of the game.
Flau’jae Johnson, not to be outdone, continued to showcase her all-around game. She hit a crucial three-pointer to stop Florida State’s momentum and keep the Seminoles from getting any closer. Her defensive contributions also proved to be vital as she picked up a key steal and assisted on a fast-break bucket, stretching LSU’s lead back to double digits.
With every challenge Florida State threw at them, LSU answered back with efficiency and confidence. The Seminoles couldn’t keep up with LSU’s depth, as the Tigers rotated players in and out seamlessly, maintaining their intensity throughout the entire game. LSU’s ability to execute offensively and lock down on defense was the difference-maker in the second half.
In the final minutes, Florida State tried to apply more pressure, but LSU’s free-throw shooting and smart ball movement allowed the Tigers to close out the game comfortably. When the final buzzer sounded, LSU had secured an impressive 84-72 victory, sending them to the Sweet 16.
Key Performances: LSU’s Stars Shine
Angel Reese: Once again, Reese proved why she’s one of the best players in the country. She finished the game with 23 points, 15 rebounds, and 4 assists, dominating the boards and controlling the paint. Reese’s presence was felt on both ends of the floor, and her ability to score efficiently while also being a defensive force made her the clear MVP of the game.
Flau’jae Johnson: Johnson’s versatility was on full display, as she contributed 18 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists. Her ability to score from beyond the arc, drive to the basket, and facilitate for her teammates made her a standout performer. Johnson’s defensive efforts were also critical, as she helped contain Florida State’s perimeter players.
: LSU’s veteran guard, Alexis Morris, provided steady leadership throughout the game. She scored 12 points and added 6 assists, contributing in both the scoring and playmaking departments. Morris’s leadership and experience were invaluable as LSU pushed forward and maintained control of the game.
LaDazhia Williams: Williams provided valuable contributions with 10 points and 8 rebounds. Her size and skill in the post were crucial in limiting Florida State’s ability to score inside. Williams’s ability to step up when needed gave LSU additional depth and ensured that the Tigers were always in control.
Florida State’s Struggles
While Florida State showed moments of brilliance, especially during their second-half run, they were ultimately undone by their inconsistency and inability to execute offensively for a full 40 minutes. Ta’Niya Latson, the Seminoles’ leading scorer, had an off night, finishing with 18 points but shooting below 40% from the field. Morgan Jones had a solid performance with 16 points, but it wasn’t enough to overcome LSU’s overwhelming talent and depth.
Florida State’s struggles on the defensive end also proved costly. While they were able to generate some turnovers and force LSU into tough shots at times, they were unable to stop Reese and Johnson when it mattered most. Their inability to slow down LSU’s dynamic duo, combined with missed opportunities on offense, ultimately led to their downfall.
LSU’s Championship Aspirations
With this dominant victory, LSU has firmly established itself as one of the top contenders for the national championship. The Tigers have been consistently strong all season, and their performance against Florida State only reinforced their status as one of the best teams in the country. LSU’s mix of elite talent, depth, and experience makes them a formidable force, and they will undoubtedly be a team to watch as the tournament progresses.
The road to the Final Four will not be easy, but LSU’s ability to dominate both ends of the floor gives them a distinct advantage. With Angel Reese and Flau’jae Johnson leading the way, the Tigers are poised for a deep run and are hungry for the program’s first national title in years.
Florida State’s Future
While Florida State’s tournament run has come to an end, the Seminoles can hold their heads high. Despite the loss, they played a competitive game against one of the top teams in the nation. Florida State’s ability to battle back in the second half, led by Jones and Latson, shows that they have the potential to compete with the best. The experience gained in this game will be invaluable as they continue to build their program and look ahead to future seasons.
LSU’s 84-72 victory over Florida State in the second round of the 2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament was a statement win. The Tigers’ combination of offensive firepower, defensive intensity, and leadership from their stars ensured their place in the Sweet 16. With their eyes firmly set on the national championship, LSU is ready to take on all comers as they look to continue their march toward glory. For Florida State, despite the defeat, they showed grit and resilience, and their future remains bright as they continue to build a competitive program. The 2025 NCAA Women’s Tournament is shaping up to be an exciting and unpredictable journey, and LSU is primed to be a central figure in that story.
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