In a thrilling showdown that kept fans on the edge of their seats, the 11th-ranked Kentucky Wildcats edged out the fifth-ranked LSU Tigers with a nail-biting score of 80-78. This dramatic finish came courtesy of Kentucky guard Tonie Morgan, who sank a crucial three-pointer with just half a second left on the clock.
This defeat marked the first of the season for LSU, bringing their record to 14 wins and one loss overall, as well as 0-1 in Southeastern Conference (SEC) play. Meanwhile, Kentucky's victory elevated their own record to 14-1, making them 1-0 in conference competition.
Looking ahead, the Tigers are set to face No. 12 Vanderbilt in Nashville on Sunday. Fans can catch this exciting matchup at Memorial Gymnasium, starting at 4 p.m. CT, with coverage provided by ESPN's Beth Mowins and Carolyn Peck. Additionally, LSU supporters can tune into the LSU Sports Radio Network where Patrick Wright and Shaeeta Williams will be providing commentary.
In an impressive display of skill, both Morgan and forward Teonni Key contributed significantly to Kentucky's win, each achieving a double-double. Morgan led the team with 24 points and 12 assists while Key dominated the boards with 17 points and 16 rebounds.
Coach Kim Mulkey of LSU praised Morgan’s impact on the game, stating, "You take Morgan off Kentucky, they’re a different team. She makes them go. It’s not just about her scoring 24 points and dishing out 12 assists; she also had zero turnovers. It’s fitting that she was the one to make the decisive shot at the end. She’s a remarkable player who enhances the performance of her teammates."
Throughout the contest, LSU exhibited solid shooting, hitting 49.2% of their attempts (30 out of 61), compared to Kentucky’s 43.5% (30 of 69). However, the Wildcats gained a significant advantage on the boards, out-rebounding the Tigers by 16 and securing 17 offensive rebounds against LSU’s only four.
Leading the charge for LSU was junior Mikaylah Williams, who shone brightly with a season-high performance of 26 points, eight rebounds, and five assists. Sophomore Jada Richard equaled her career-best with 14 points, while seniors Flau’jae Johnson and Amiya Joyner contributed 15 and 14 points, respectively, rounding out a strong offensive showing.
The game began with LSU quickly establishing an early lead, going on a formidable 14-2 run driven by Williams, who scored 10 points before the first media timeout. In response, Kentucky rallied back, scoring 16 of the next 19 points to take the lead at 18-17 with just over a minute remaining in the first quarter. Ultimately, LSU managed to close the quarter with a slight edge, leading 23-22.
As the second quarter unfolded, the lead changed hands several times. Kentucky initially regained the advantage, but LSU fought back fiercely to reclaim a 31-30 lead with 5:25 left in the half. The teams battled closely until they entered halftime tied at 41.
After the break, LSU briefly took the lead with a jump shot from Johnson. However, Kentucky quickly responded, and after a series of lead changes, LSU maintained a slim lead, finishing the third quarter ahead 65-60.
The final quarter was tense, with LSU holding onto their lead until the 2:10 mark when Morgan hit two free throws to level the score. Soon after, Kentucky forward Clara Strack put her team ahead with a jumper. In a dramatic turn of events, Williams managed to tie the game again with three successful free throws before Morgan clinched the victory with her last-second shot.
Coach Mulkey acknowledged Kentucky's composure during the game, noting their experience as a key factor. "I want to give Kentucky credit. They were poised and played with a lot of experience—fifth-year seniors make a difference. If you had told me we would have been outrebounded with this group, I would have found it hard to believe. But that comes down to experience and toughness. We simply need to improve as a team."
What are your thoughts on the game? Do you agree with Coach Mulkey’s assessment of Kentucky’s experience playing a crucial role in their victory? Share your opinions in the comments!
