LSU Tigers Power Past Auburn, Stay Undefeated to Open SEC Play
The LSU Tigers showed why they are a force to be reckoned with this season, overcoming a slow start to defeat the Auburn Tigers 73-63 inside the Pete Maravich Assembly Center on Sunday afternoon. With the victory, Kim Mulkey’s squad remains unbeaten at 17-0 on the season and starts Southeastern Conference (SEC) play with a 2-0 record. Despite some early sluggishness, LSU showed their resilience and offensive firepower, outlasting Auburn in a well-rounded team performance.
How It Happened
The game began with LSU struggling to find their rhythm. While the home team jumped out to an early lead with Aneesah Morrow scoring back-to-back buckets, Auburn quickly responded with a 7-0 run, capitalizing on LSU’s missed opportunities and turnovers. The visiting Tigers were relentless and managed to outscore LSU 7-4 in the final 3:20 of the first quarter, holding a 16-11 lead at the end of the period.
LSU’s sluggishness in the opening quarter was quickly turned around in the second, as they mounted a strong comeback. The Tigers started the second period on an 8-0 run, with Morrow contributing four of those points. That run was just the beginning of a dominant quarter for LSU, with Kailyn Gilbert providing a spark off the bench. Gilbert was nearly perfect in the second, hitting all five of her shots and scoring 11 of her 13 points in the first half. Thanks to Gilbert’s offensive explosion and solid defense, LSU went on to outscore Auburn 27-8 in the period, flipping a five-point deficit into a 14-point lead at halftime. The score at the break was 38-24, and the Tigers had firmly taken control.
The third quarter saw Auburn attempt to claw their way back into the game. The visiting Tigers went on a 9-0 run midway through the period, powered by Taylen Collins, who contributed four points during the surge. This cut LSU’s lead to just 11 points, but the Tigers didn’t panic. Mikaylah Williams stepped up, draining crucial free throws, and Gilbert added a jumper to push the lead back to 15 points. Despite Auburn’s efforts, LSU’s defense and poise kept the visitors at bay, ensuring that the Tigers maintained a double-digit lead for much of the fourth quarter.
In the final period, Auburn was unable to mount a serious challenge. LSU kept its composure and stretched its lead to secure the win. The 73-63 victory was a testament to the Tigers’ ability to weather early adversity and respond with a dominant second half, led by some stellar individual performances and strong team play.
Big Number: 27
The 27-point second-quarter outburst was the turning point of the game. After struggling to find their offense in the opening period, LSU exploded in the second, outscoring Auburn by a 19-point margin. The Tigers’ defense stifled Auburn’s shooting, and their offense came alive, flipping the momentum entirely. The 27 points in the second quarter helped LSU turn a 16-11 deficit into a 38-24 lead at halftime, providing a comfortable cushion that the team would not relinquish.
Players of the Game: Aneesah Morrow & Kailyn Gilbert
- Aneesah Morrow: The senior forward was a force from start to finish, setting the tone early and finishing the game with a double-double. Morrow totaled 21 points and 14 rebounds, adding another dominant performance to her already impressive season. She was a consistent presence on both ends of the floor and played a crucial role in LSU’s offensive flow. With her 15th double-double of the season, Morrow showed why she is one of the premier players in women’s college basketball.
- Kailyn Gilbert: The sophomore guard was outstanding off the bench, providing the offensive spark that LSU desperately needed in the first half. Gilbert finished with 17 points, including an incredible six-for-six shooting in the first half alone. Her perfect shooting display in the second quarter helped LSU turn the tide and build a lead that Auburn would never fully recover from. Gilbert’s efficiency and confidence in her shot made her one of the most impactful players on the floor.
Together, Morrow and Gilbert were instrumental in LSU’s victory, combining for 38 points and 14 rebounds, leading the Tigers to a crucial win in their SEC opener.
What’s Next for LSU
LSU’s victory over Auburn was a crucial early test as the Tigers enter the heart of SEC play. At 17-0, they are off to a strong start in the conference, but the real challenges lie ahead. The Tigers will now turn their focus to their next matchup, a road game against Tennessee on Thursday, January 11, at 5:30 p.m. Tennessee (13-1, 1-1 SEC) will present another tough challenge for LSU, but with the depth and talent on this roster, the Tigers are well-positioned to continue their undefeated streak.
Fans can catch the action on Mustang 107.1 FM, LSU’s home for women’s basketball in Acadiana, as the Tigers look to build on their early-season success and continue their quest for an SEC championship.
Final Thoughts
Kim Mulkey’s LSU Tigers have proven that they are a force to be reckoned with in 2024-25, maintaining an undefeated record and showing their resilience in the face of adversity. While the early sluggishness against Auburn may have raised some concerns, LSU’s ability to respond with dominant stretches of basketball—especially in the second quarter—demonstrated their championship potential. With leaders like Aneesah Morrow and Kailyn Gilbert setting the tone, this team is firing on all cylinders.
As SEC play heats up, LSU’s depth, talent, and coaching will continue to be put to the test. However, if this game against Auburn was any indication, the Tigers have the tools to compete with anyone and are poised for another strong season in the SEC. The road ahead is tough, but with performances like this one, LSU looks primed to challenge for the top spot in the conference and beyond.
