10th ranked LSU will host top ranked South Carolina on Thursday, and the two teams were not looking ahead when they played on Sunday. The Lady Tigers easily defeated Arkansas 99-68 on Sunday and the Gamecocks handled their business as well, beating Texas A&M 99-64.
Both games were nearly identical with the Lady Tigers and USC both getting off to a fast start. LSU scored the first 18 points in its game and South Carolina scored the first 15 points in its game.
The Lady Tigers were led by freshman Mikayla Williams who had 21 points. Hailey Van Lith had a nice game on Sunday as she scored 20 points and dished out six assists. Angel Reese had 16 points and 17 rebounds.
LSU and South Carolina last met in Columbia on February 12, 2023 and South Carolina won easily 88-64.
A rematch was expected last season. But the two teams did not face each other in the SEC Tournament and a potential rematch in the NCAA title game did not occur after Iowa handed the Gamecocks their first and only loss of the season in the national semifinals.
South Carolina is looking to go undefeated again in the regular season and it’s impressive what they are doing. Four of their top five scorers from last year’ steam did not return this season.
But Kamilla Cardoso is back, and the 6-foot-7 senior center is averaging 13 points and 11 rebounds.
Oregon transfer Te-Hina Paopao has been a huge addition. The senior guard is averaging 13 points a game and she’s shooting an amazing 57% from three-point territory. Freshman MiLaysia Fulwiley has been great off the bench. She had 21 points against the Aggies on Sunday and she’s averaging 11 points a contest.
When LSU visited South Carolina last year, the crowd was loud, and they affected LSU’s performance. Coach LSU Kim Mulkey will be asking the Lady Tigers fans to bring it. LSU has won 29 straight games at home.
It’s not a stretch to say this will be the most anticipated regular season game in LSU women’s basketball history.
Tip off Thursday is at 7 PM.
