Quick Takeaways: No. 3 Texas Longhorns defeat No. 5 LSU women’s basketball 65-58

The matchup between the No. 3 Texas Longhorns and the No. 5 LSU Tigers women’s basketball teams was an anticipated clash that had fans and analysts alike eagerly awaiting the outcome. On a night that saw both teams showcase their respective strengths, it was the Longhorns who emerged victorious with a 65-58 win over the Tigers. This result not only marked a significant moment in the 2024-2025 college basketball season but also provided plenty of storylines for both teams moving forward. Below is a comprehensive analysis of the game, touching on the key takeaways, critical moments, and broader implications for both Texas and LSU.

The Stakes: A Highly Anticipated Top-5 Showdown

Both Texas and LSU entered the game with national title aspirations, making this contest a marquee matchup. The game was hyped for several reasons. Firstly, both teams were heavily ranked in the top five, with Texas holding the No. 3 spot and LSU at No. 5. Both teams had strong rosters, led by superstar players who had already made significant impacts in the NCAA, and this game was seen as a potential preview of what we might see later in March during the NCAA tournament.

LSU, under head coach Kim Mulkey, had established itself as a force to be reckoned with in women’s college basketball, fueled by the dynamic play of star forward Angel Reese. Reese, a dominant presence on both ends of the floor, had been a major contributor to LSU’s success since arriving in Baton Rouge, and her ability to control the paint was one of the key factors that made LSU so dangerous.

On the other side, Texas, under head coach Vic Schaefer, was also coming off a strong season and boasted a roster brimming with talent, including their own All-American candidate in senior guard Rori Harmon. Harmon’s versatility and leadership had guided Texas through a challenging non-conference schedule, and the Longhorns’ aggressive defense and fast-paced offense were considered some of the best in the nation.

Both teams had clear strengths, but it was their ability to execute in key moments that ultimately decided the game.

Texas Defense and Game Control

One of the most significant takeaways from this game was the effectiveness of Texas’ defense. Throughout the contest, the Longhorns exhibited a level of defensive intensity that kept LSU off balance and disrupted their offensive flow. Texas utilized full-court pressure, traps, and timely rotations to limit LSU’s offensive opportunities. The Longhorns’ ability to clog the paint and contest shots was evident from the early stages of the game.

LSU, known for its ability to score in the paint, particularly with Angel Reese, struggled to get into a rhythm offensively. Reese, who had been a dominant force throughout the season, was unable to consistently assert herself in this matchup. Texas’ defense was built to neutralize players like Reese—athletic forwards who can dominate around the basket—and they did so by making it difficult for LSU to establish its interior presence. Reese finished the game with solid statistics but was held below her usual scoring average, primarily due to the stifling defense and double-teams she faced whenever she touched the ball in the post.

The Longhorns also did a fantastic job limiting LSU’s transition game. The Tigers, known for their fast-paced offense, often thrive on pushing the ball after defensive rebounds, but Texas’ defense was quick to get back, limiting LSU’s ability to run the floor. By neutralizing LSU’s fast break opportunities, Texas forced the Tigers to work in half-court settings, where their offense became more predictable.

This defensive performance from Texas, particularly their ability to limit key LSU players, played a crucial role in determining the outcome of the game. The Longhorns were able to control the tempo and force the Tigers into uncomfortable situations.

Key Performances: Rori Harmon Leads the Way

While Texas’ defense was a key to their success, it was the play of senior guard Rori Harmon that truly elevated the Longhorns to victory. Harmon, who has been one of the best players in women’s college basketball, delivered an outstanding performance that solidified her place as one of the premier guards in the country.

Harmon was a constant threat on both ends of the floor. Offensively, she was dynamic, scoring from all areas of the court and showing the ability to break down LSU’s defense with her penetration. Harmon finished with a game-high 20 points, including several clutch buckets in the second half when the game was still in doubt. She also contributed with several assists, helping orchestrate the offense and keeping LSU’s defense off balance.

On the defensive end, Harmon was equally impressive. She played a key role in neutralizing LSU’s guards, including the dynamic play of Alexis Morris. Harmon’s ability to guard multiple positions and provide leadership on defense was a difference-maker in this game, as she helped disrupt LSU’s offensive flow and forced turnovers at critical junctures.

Harmon’s leadership and all-around performance were the driving force behind Texas’ ability to secure the win. Her poise in the second half, coupled with her scoring ability, allowed Texas to pull away in the final minutes and secure the 65-58 victory.

LSU’s Struggles and Missed Opportunities

While LSU’s defense was solid throughout the game, the Tigers struggled on offense, particularly in key moments. LSU’s usual offensive efficiency, led by players like Angel Reese and Alexis Morris, was not on full display against Texas. The Tigers were not able to find the same rhythm they’ve had in previous games, and part of that can be attributed to Texas’ stifling defense, but some of it also comes down to missed opportunities.

LSU’s shooting, especially from beyond the arc, was a major issue in the game. The Tigers have been inconsistent from three-point range this season, and in this game, that trend continued. LSU finished the game with a poor shooting percentage from the three-point line, and those missed shots allowed Texas to maintain a lead throughout much of the contest. In high-stakes matchups like this one, being able to stretch the defense with timely three-pointers is crucial, and LSU was unable to capitalize in that area.

Additionally, the Tigers were unable to take advantage of their free throw opportunities. Free throw shooting is often a deciding factor in close games, and LSU struggled from the line, leaving points on the table. These missed opportunities from the charity stripe added to the overall frustration the Tigers felt throughout the game.

LSU’s offensive woes were compounded by Texas’ ability to take control of the tempo. While the Tigers tried to push the pace at times, their inability to break Texas’ defensive press or capitalize on turnovers left them with limited scoring chances in transition. LSU’s offense was forced to run through half-court sets, which played into the hands of Texas’ well-organized defense.

Texas’ Bench Contribution

Another important factor in Texas’ victory was the contribution from their bench players. While Rori Harmon’s performance was outstanding, the Longhorns received valuable minutes from players like Aaliyah Moore and Shaylee Gonzales, who provided depth and energy throughout the game. Moore’s rebounding and defense in the paint were particularly key, as LSU struggled to generate second-chance opportunities. Gonzales, a sharpshooting guard, also contributed by hitting timely shots that kept Texas’ offense in motion and put pressure on LSU.

In comparison, LSU’s bench struggled to make an impact, with the team heavily relying on its starting five. The lack of depth and the inability of LSU’s reserves to contribute offensively hurt the Tigers, particularly when they needed a spark in the second half.

The Impact of the Loss on LSU’s National Championship Hopes

Despite the loss, LSU remains one of the top teams in women’s basketball. The Tigers’ performance throughout the season has shown that they are capable of competing with anyone in the country, and while this loss to Texas is a setback, it is by no means a death knell for their national championship aspirations.

LSU’s defense remains a strength, and with players like Angel Reese and Alexis Morris leading the charge, they are still one of the most dangerous teams in the nation. However, the Tigers will need to address their offensive inconsistencies if they hope to make a deep run in the NCAA tournament. The key will be finding ways to execute more efficiently in half-court sets, improve their three-point shooting, and capitalize on free throw opportunities.

Looking Ahead: Texas Solidifies Its Status

For Texas, this victory solidifies their status as a national title contender. With the win, the Longhorns not only improve their record but also send a message to the rest of the country that they are capable of competing with the best. Their defense, led by Rori Harmon’s all-around performance, is one of the best in the country, and their ability to execute in crucial moments is a strong indicator that they will be a formidable force in March.

This win over LSU gives Texas a major boost in terms of confidence, and it sets them up well for the remainder of the season as they look to challenge for a national championship.