LSU Tigers: What we learned from first round win in NCAA Tournament

The LSU Tigers defeated Hawaii in the women’s NCAA Tournament First-Round. Fans that tuned in learned some things about Kim Mulkey’s squad.

The Pete Maravich Assembly Center (PMAC) in Baton Rouge was rocking during women’s NCAA Tournament First-Round action on Friday night. Fans were treated to the LSU Tigers knocking the Hawaii Rainbow Wahine out of the tournament. Below are takeaways from the Bayou Bengals’ 73-50 win.

LSU Tigers fans haven’t seen Angel Reese’s best quite yet

Angel Reese was outstanding during LSU’s regular season, as evidenced by her First-team All-American selection. However, Reese was dominant against Hawaii on Friday night. The junior forward led the Tigers with 34 points and 15 rebounds, three assists, and three steals.

The SEC quickly advertised that Reese’s performance was one for the century.

Many fans realized Reese needed to elevate her game for the LSU Tigers to make a women’s Final Four run. Suffice it to say; she has not disappointed the Death Valley loyalists. Moving forward, it’s not a matter of if Reese will continue to improve, but how much will she dominate?

The LSU Tigers prioritized the low post

It was clear from tip-off that the LSU Tigers’ game plan was to get the ball to the low post. Mulkey’s squad did such, outscoring Hawaii 44-13 from inside the paint. LSU also controlled the boards and out-rebounded the Rainbow Wahine 40-33.

One might assume LSU’s offense remains motivated by South Carolina. But, of course, it wasn’t long ago when the Gamecocks crushed the Tigers 88-64. South Carolina owned the low post that night, nearly shutting out Reese and out-rebounding LSU 45-23. As a result, it seems Mulkey’s squad is prioritizing bigger and more physical play near the rim. Such makes sense considering South Carolina is the overwhelming women’s NCAA Tournament favorite.

LSU will play Michigan in the Round of 32

The LSU Tigers (29-2) first round win over Hawaii means they will play the Michigan Wolverines in the Round of 32. Michigan (23-9) defeated UNLV 71-59 at PMAC earlier in the day. Emily Kiser led the Wolverines with 18 points, ten rebounds, and six assists.

LSU vs. Michigan will tip-off on Sunday, March 19, at a time to be announced. Moreover, Baton Rouge serving as Greenville Regional 2 host means the Tigers play one more game on their home court.