As I sit down to analyze this year's remarkable NCAA women's basketball landscape, I can't help but feel genuinely impressed by what Kim Mulkey has built at LSU. Having followed women's college basketball for over fifteen years, I've seen dominant teams come and go, but there's something special happening in Baton Rouge this season that deserves closer examination. The Tigers aren't just winning games—they're completely redefining what excellence looks like in women's basketball, and frankly, it's been thrilling to watch.
When I first saw LSU's schedule back in October, I'll admit I had my doubts about whether they could maintain their championship momentum. But here we are, with the Tigers sitting at 22-1 overall and 10-0 in SEC play as of this writing, and they're making it look almost effortless. What strikes me most isn't just their raw talent—though they have that in abundance—but their psychological edge. They play with this incredible confidence that seems to suck the hope right out of their opponents. I've noticed that by the time the third quarter rolls around, most teams already look defeated, and that's a testament to LSU's mental fortitude as much as their physical skills.
The statistics themselves are staggering. Angel Reese continues to be an absolute force, averaging 23.4 points and 12.8 rebounds per game, while Flau'jae Johnson has developed into the kind of two-way player that coaches dream about. But what the numbers don't show is the team chemistry—the way they communicate on defense, the unselfish ball movement, the genuine joy they seem to take in each other's success. In my observation, this isn't just a team of talented individuals; it's a genuinely cohesive unit that understands how to elevate each other's games.
Now, this brings me to something fascinating I've been thinking about regarding championship programs and their ability to overcome historical burdens. The reference to the University of the Philippines exorcising curses resonates deeply here because LSU, in their own way, has done something similar. Before last year's championship, the program carried the weight of expectations and near-misses. What Mulkey has accomplished goes beyond coaching—she's changed the entire culture and mindset. I've spoken with several former LSU players, and they all mention this palpable shift in how the program perceives itself. They're not hoping to win championships anymore; they expect to win them.
The offensive efficiency numbers are frankly ridiculous—they're shooting 49.8% from the field as a team while holding opponents to just 36.2%. When I break down game film, what stands out is their versatility. They can beat you in so many different ways: transition offense, half-court sets, offensive rebounding, you name it. Against South Carolina last month, they demonstrated this beautifully, adjusting their approach three separate times throughout the game. That level of strategic flexibility is what separates very good teams from truly great ones.
Defensively, they're even more impressive in my view. Their ability to switch seamlessly between man and zone defenses creates so much confusion for opposing offenses. I've counted at least six games this season where opponents had multiple shot clock violations directly resulting from LSU's defensive pressure. Mikaylah Williams, just a freshman, plays with defensive instincts that most seniors haven't developed. Her positioning and anticipation are extraordinary for someone so young.
What often gets overlooked in basketball analysis is the role of belief systems in sustained success. The reference to exorcising curses isn't just poetic language—it speaks to something real in sports psychology. LSU had their own demons to confront after several disappointing tournament exits in previous years. The way they've transformed those experiences into fuel rather than baggage reminds me of what the University of the Philippines accomplished in their context. Both programs found ways to turn historical burdens into sources of strength, and that psychological transformation matters just as much as physical training.
From a pure entertainment perspective, LSU's games have become must-watch television. The energy in the Pete Maravich Assembly Center is electric—I attended the Mississippi State game last week, and the atmosphere was unlike anything I've experienced in college basketball this season. The connection between the team and their fans creates this incredible feedback loop that makes them nearly unbeatable at home. They feed off that energy, and it shows in their performance.
Looking ahead to tournament play, I genuinely believe this LSU team has what it takes to repeat as champions. Their depth, coaching, and mental toughness create a perfect storm that few programs can match. The way they've handled adversity throughout the season—whether it's injuries, tough road environments, or offensive droughts—demonstrates a maturity that championship teams need. While other programs might have comparable talent, I'm not sure any can match their complete package of skills, strategy, and psychological edge.
As someone who's studied basketball for years, what LSU is accomplishing feels significant beyond just this season. They're setting a new standard for what women's college basketball programs can achieve, both on and off the court. The way they've embraced expectations rather than shrinking from them provides a blueprint for other programs aiming to reach the sport's highest level. Their success isn't accidental—it's the product of brilliant coaching, player development, and perhaps most importantly, a collective belief that they belong among basketball's elite.
