Column: Like other sports, LSU softball ought to hand along the No. 25 jersey. This is the reason.

In the world of college athletics, the number worn by an athlete can come to symbolize something much greater than just a numerical identifier. It can represent greatness, legacy, and a lasting impact on a program’s history. For LSU softball, that number is No. 25.

This iconic number, associated with one of the greatest players in LSU softball history, Andrea “Drea” J. D. Carter, has become a symbol of excellence, tenacity, and determination. The tradition of retiring or passing along a jersey number isn’t unique to football, basketball, or other high-profile sports. In fact, LSU softball could be in the perfect position to start a new tradition—handing along No. 25 to future generations of players who exemplify the same qualities and set the same high standard that Carter did during her time with the team. Here’s why LSU softball should continue the legacy of No. 25, ensuring that it remains a powerful symbol within the program.

The Legacy of Andrea Carter: A Historical Context

To understand the significance of No. 25, we must first look at the player who made it legendary—Andrea “Drea” J. D. Carter. Carter, who played for LSU from 2014 to 2017, is widely regarded as one of the best players in LSU’s storied softball history. A standout in the outfield, Carter was known for her speed, defensive prowess, and leadership. Throughout her career, she set numerous program records, including in the categories of stolen bases, runs, and batting average.

One of the most unforgettable moments in Carter’s career came during the 2017 Women’s College World Series, where she led LSU to its second-ever national championship game. While the team ultimately finished as the runner-up, Carter’s performance was a beacon of brilliance. Her commitment to the game and her ability to rise to the occasion inspired not only her teammates but also countless fans across the nation. By the time she graduated, Carter had solidified her place as one of the greatest athletes to ever don the purple and gold.

When players like Carter leave a program, they leave behind an indelible mark—one that is difficult to replicate. The No. 25 jersey represents everything she stood for on and off the field: resilience, integrity, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. These qualities are just as vital to LSU softball today as they were during Carter’s playing days, and as the program evolves and grows, it would be a fitting tribute to continue honoring these values by passing on No. 25 to a future player who embodies these ideals.

The Tradition of Passing Along Jerseys in Other Sports

In college athletics, the idea of passing along a jersey number is a tradition that has been embraced by several programs, particularly in football and basketball. Schools like Michigan, Alabama, and UCLA have all established iconic jersey numbers that are handed down to future players, creating a connection between past legends and new recruits. The concept behind this tradition is that the player who inherits the jersey carries the responsibility of upholding the standards set by those who wore it before them.

For example, in Alabama football, the No. 12 jersey has been worn by several legendary quarterbacks, including Joe Namath, Ken Stabler, and Tua Tagovailoa. Each player who wore No. 12 took on the responsibility of maintaining the legacy of greatness established by those who wore it before. This tradition is powerful because it ensures that future generations of athletes are aware of their place in a long and storied history and strive to live up to the expectations set by their predecessors.

Similarly, in basketball, UCLA has made the tradition of honoring past players through jersey numbers an integral part of their identity. For example, No. 31 was worn by Reggie Miller, and it was later handed to Russell Westbrook, continuing the legacy of excellence. These traditions help forge a connection between past, present, and future players, fostering a sense of community and shared history within a program.

While these traditions are widespread in high-profile sports like football and basketball, they are less common in women’s sports, particularly in softball. However, that should not be the case. Just because a sport doesn’t have the same exposure as football or basketball doesn’t mean that players and their legacies should be any less valued. For LSU softball, continuing the tradition of No. 25 would give players something to aspire to, creating a deep connection between the team’s storied past and its bright future.

Why LSU Softball Should Embrace the Tradition of Passing Along No. 25

There are several compelling reasons why LSU softball should adopt the tradition of passing along the No. 25 jersey.

1. Recognizing and Celebrating Legacy

First and foremost, honoring No. 25 is a way to celebrate the program’s rich history and honor the players who helped shape it. Andrea Carter’s impact on LSU softball is undeniable, and her legacy is one that every new player should aim to uphold. By passing the jersey along, LSU ensures that Carter’s spirit and commitment to excellence continue to live on, inspiring new generations of athletes to push themselves to achieve greatness.

Additionally, passing along No. 25 would provide an opportunity for the team to reflect on their achievements and understand the larger context of their place in LSU’s history. Players who wear No. 25 would know that they are following in the footsteps of one of the program’s all-time greats, and they would carry the responsibility of upholding that legacy with pride.

2. Inspiring Future Generations

LSU softball has established itself as one of the premier programs in the country. The team has made regular appearances in the Women’s College World Series and has produced numerous All-Americans, professional players, and championship contenders. Passing along No. 25 could serve as a powerful motivation for future players to strive for greatness both on and off the field.

When a player is chosen to wear No. 25, it would send a clear message: they have demonstrated exceptional leadership, work ethic, and determination, much like Carter did during her career. This honor would be something that younger recruits can aspire to achieve when they first step foot on campus. The idea of earning the chance to wear the same number as one of the program’s legends is something that could inspire a deep sense of pride and drive to succeed.

3. Fostering Continuity in Team Culture

Passing down the No. 25 jersey would create a strong sense of continuity and unity within the program. In a team sport like softball, building a cohesive team culture is critical to success. By keeping the tradition of No. 25 alive, LSU softball would ensure that each new player has a clear understanding of the program’s core values. This continuity would help players form a stronger connection with each other, knowing that they are all working toward the same goals—honoring the program’s history, playing with heart, and giving their best effort every day.

4. A Symbol of Hard Work and Dedication

Andrea Carter’s journey at LSU wasn’t easy. She faced adversity and worked tirelessly to develop into the player she became. Her career was marked by resilience, determination, and a relentless work ethic that set the tone for her entire team. Handing No. 25 down to future players would be a way to remind them of the importance of these qualities. It would serve as a daily reminder that wearing No. 25 isn’t just about athleticism; it’s about having the heart and mindset to overcome challenges and lead by example.

5. Creating a New Tradition in Women’s Sports

Finally, adopting the tradition of passing along No. 25 would help elevate the status of women’s sports as a whole. Too often, the legacies of female athletes are overshadowed or forgotten in comparison to their male counterparts. By creating a new tradition in softball, LSU would help establish the idea that women’s sports are just as important and deserving of recognition as men’s sports. In doing so, LSU would further cement itself as a trailblazer in the promotion of women’s athletics, both in college sports and beyond.