LSU women's basketball: 5 takeaways from win over Virginia Tech

LSU women's basketball defeated No. 9 Virginia Tech in a huge nonconference win, showcasing strong offense and defense.

In a thrilling game at the PMAC, LSU women's basketball secured a significant nonconference victory on Thursday evening. The team faced off against No. 9 Virginia Tech, marking its first major challenge since the season opener defeat to Colorado. However, the Tigers rose to the occasion and emerged victorious in a rematch of last year's Final Four.

The spotlight was on Angel Reese, who returned to the court after a period of absence for undisclosed reasons. Despite a slow start, Reese eventually found her rhythm, underscoring her importance to the team. The Tigers demonstrated resilience and determination, erasing a seven-point deficit in the second quarter and holding the Hokies to just nine points. Aneesah Morrow's standout performance, amassing 11 points and nine rebounds in the first half, further bolstered LSU's strong showing.

The return of Reese, combined with the emergence of Mikaylah Williams as a critical offensive force, has solidified LSU's depth and scoring threats. Williams, a true freshman, has been a revelation for the team, consistently contributing to its offensive prowess. As the engine that drives the team, Reese's impact is undeniable, propelling LSU to success when she is in top form.

The victory over Virginia Tech holds significance beyond the immediate triumph, as it demonstrates LSU's readiness to compete at a high level. The team's defense shone brightly, limiting Virginia Tech's offensive capabilities and showcasing the strength of Kim Mulkey's coaching philosophy. Mulkey's emphasis on defensive prowess has clearly paid off, as LSU's defensive play dictated the outcome of the game.

Looking ahead, LSU's performance in challenging nonconference matchups will carry weight in future postseason considerations. The team's ability to rise to the occasion against formidable opponents bodes well for its prospects in the long run. As the Tigers prepare for SEC play in the new year, the lessons learned from these early tests will undoubtedly shape their trajectory.

In summary, LSU's resounding victory over Virginia Tech serves as a testament to the team's resilience, depth, and defensive prowess. With Angel Reese's return and the emergence of young talents like Mikaylah Williams, the Tigers are poised for success as they navigate the challenges of the season. The win not only solidifies LSU's standing as a formidable force in women's college basketball but also sets the stage for future triumphs in the competitive landscape of the sport.