Last-Second Drama: LSU Edges Tennessee 89-87 in Thrilling Showdown

In a heart-stopping display of basketball prowess, the No. 6 LSU women’s basketball team pulled off a dramatic 89-87 victory against No. 16 Tennessee on January 9, 2025. The game will be remembered for its intense back-and-forth battle and a last-second heroics that will be etched in the annals of college basketball history.

The matchup between these SEC powerhouses lived up to its billing from the opening tip-off. LSU’s defensive strategy was razor-sharp in the first quarter, completely shutting down Tennessee’s interior scoring and establishing an early tone of dominance. The Tigers’ ability to control the paint and limit scoring opportunities set the stage for an epic confrontation.

Kailyn Gilbert emerged as the game’s ultimate hero, delivering a performance that will be talked about for years to come. The dynamic guard finished the night with an impressive 22 points, including the game-winning layup with just one second remaining on the clock. Her clutch play has become something of a trademark this season, with this victory adding another chapter to her growing legend.

Alongside Gilbert, Aneesah Morrow was equally instrumental in LSU’s success. She dominated the boards with a monster double-double, recording 23 points and an incredible 21 rebounds. Morrow’s presence in the paint was a constant challenge for Tennessee’s defense, creating multiple scoring opportunities for her team.

The game was far from a straightforward victory. Tennessee showed remarkable resilience, overcoming an 18-point deficit in the second quarter and mounting a serious challenge to LSU’s undefeated record. Jewel Spear played a crucial role for the Lady Vols, hitting key three-pointers that kept her team in contention, including a clutch shot that tied the game at 87 in the final minute.

Head coach Kim Mulkey’s strategic genius was on full display throughout the contest. Her unconventional small-ball lineup proved particularly effective, neutralizing Tennessee’s size advantage and creating mismatches that LSU exploited repeatedly. The team’s fast-break offense was electrifying, scoring an impressive 34 points in transition.

The final moments of the game were nothing short of theatrical. With the score tied and seconds ticking away, Gilbert received the ball and drove to the basket. Her last-second layup not only won the game but also solidified LSU’s status as a top contender in women’s college basketball. The bench erupted, and fans were left in absolute awe of the dramatic finish.

This victory marked several significant milestones for LSU:

1. Improved to an impressive 18-0 record
2. Secured their third consecutive SEC conference win
3. Maintained their perfect conference record at 3-0
4. Demonstrated exceptional mental toughness against a top-ranked opponent

“We never quit, we never back down,” Gilbert said in the post-game interview. “This team has heart, and we proved it tonight.”

The win continues LSU’s remarkable season under Kim Mulkey’s leadership, showcasing why they are considered one of the most exciting teams in college basketball. With each game, they continue to build a legacy of resilience, skill, and unbreakable team spirit.

Final Score: LSU 89, Tennessee 87

A night of pure basketball magic that will be remembered for years to come.