LSU Women’s Basketball Sends a Message With 40-Point Rout of Alabama
If LSU was looking to make a statement heading into a loaded February schedule, consider it delivered - loud and clear.
The sixth-ranked Tigers didn’t just beat No. 24 Alabama on Sunday. They dismantled them, wire to wire, in a 40-point blowout that showcased not only LSU’s top-end talent but the depth and maturity of a roster that’s starting to hit its stride at just the right time.
This was LSU’s seventh straight SEC win, and it came with some history. For the 12th time this season, the Tigers crossed the 100-point mark - setting a new SEC record and placing them fourth all-time in NCAA history for most 100-point games in a single season. That’s not just prolific scoring - that’s dominance.
Balanced, Efficient, Relentless
LSU shot 56 percent from the field and dropped 10 threes, but the real story was how evenly the production was spread. Every single player who stepped on the floor for the Tigers scored. That’s the kind of team-wide contribution that turns a good team into a terrifying one.
Sophomore point guard Jada Richard led the way with 16 points and didn’t miss a shot from the field - a perfect 5-for-5. Her only blemish?
A single missed free throw. The Tigers didn’t need a monster game from their stars, and that’s the scary part.
Mikaylah Williams and Flau’Jae Johnson, LSU’s go-to duo all season, got to take a breather earlier than usual. Williams logged just 25 minutes, Johnson 21, and neither was needed to carry the load. Instead, the future of LSU basketball took center stage.
The Freshman Class Steps Up
ZaKiyah Johnson had her breakout performance, notching her first career double-double with 15 points and 10 rebounds in just 22 minutes off the bench. She played with poise, confidence, and energy - exactly what you want to see from a freshman stepping into a bigger role.
Bella Hines and Divine Bourrage chipped in 11 combined points, and MiLaysia Fulwiley continued to show why she’s one of the most exciting young guards in the country. Fulwiley poured in 10 points, dished out four assists, and grabbed three boards in 26 minutes, knocking down three of her seven attempts from beyond the arc. Her ability to create off the dribble and stretch the floor gives LSU another dynamic weapon off the bench.
Winning the Margins
This wasn’t just a hot shooting night. LSU dominated the little things - the effort plays, the hustle stats.
They forced 17 Alabama turnovers and turned them into 24 points. They outscored the Crimson Tide by 16 in the paint.
And they controlled the boards, finishing with a +15 rebounding edge.
One of the biggest developments? The emergence of freshman center Kate Koval.
She got the start and looked increasingly comfortable in the post, finishing with eight points and nine rebounds in just 14 minutes. Her growth could be a game-changer for LSU down the stretch, especially as the schedule ramps up.
The Road Ahead
Sunday’s win was the first of seven games LSU will play in February - and five of those will come against ranked opponents. This month is going to test the Tigers in every way, but if this performance is any indication, they’re ready for it.
Next up? A marquee rematch with No.
4 Texas in Austin on Thursday night. LSU won the first meeting 70-65 back in Baton Rouge on January 11.
Now they’ll try to complete the season sweep in what could be their biggest game of the regular season.
The Tigers have found their rhythm - and if they keep playing like this, the rest of the SEC better buckle up.