The LSU women’s basketball team lost to Duke, 87-85, in the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 on March 27 at the Golden 1 Center in Sacramento.
The game was significant as it ended LSU’s run in the tournament and determined which team would advance further. Both teams fought closely throughout the match, with momentum shifting several times.
Duke took an early lead, starting with a nine-point streak after Mikaylah Williams opened scoring for LSU with two free throws. By halftime, Duke led by seven points. In the first half, MiLaysia Fulwiley led LSU with 18 points as the Tigers shot just under 38 percent from the field. Duke outperformed them slightly, shooting over 46 percent and dominating inside scoring.
In the second half, Amiya Joyner started scoring for LSU and Williams later helped give them a brief lead. The game remained close until its final moments when Ashlon Jackson hit a three-pointer at the buzzer to secure Duke’s win despite a late run by LSU.
Fulwiley set her career high for LSU with 28 points along with four assists and two three-pointers. Williams added another strong performance with 22 points and five rebounds while Flau’Jae Johnson also scored double digits. For Duke, Toby Fournier and Taina Mair each contributed significantly by scoring 22 points apiece.
A full recap of this closely contested matchup is expected soon.
