LSU women’s basketball is set to kick off its 2025-26 season on Tuesday, taking on Houston Christian at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center. This highly anticipated matchup marks the Tigers’ return to home court after an impressive exhibition performance.
Tigers to Host Houston Christian in Season Opener
The LSU Tigers will play Houston Christian in their season opener, which can be viewed on SEC Network+. Commentators for the game will include Lyn Rollins and Victor Howell. Fans can also tune into the LSU Sports Radio Network, where Patrick Wright and Shaeeta Williams will provide live coverage.
Season Schedule Overview
In addition to the matchup against Houston Christian, LSU will compete in two more games this week:
- Thursday: Southeastern Louisiana (Home)
- Sunday: Georgia Southern (Away)
Individual game tickets for upcoming home games at the Maravich Center can be purchased through LSUtix.net.
Historical Context of the Matchup
This will be the third time LSU has faced Houston Christian in women’s basketball, with the Tigers winning both previous encounters. Their last meeting resulted in a commanding 101-47 victory during Coach Kim Mulkey’s second season.
Recent Performance and Roster Highlights
Before the season opener, LSU showcased a dominant defensive performance in their final exhibition game, defeating Langston 121-41. The Tigers’ defense limited Langston to just 34.1% shooting and forced 36 turnovers.
Senior Amiya Joyner led the Tigers with a remarkable double-double, recording 24 points and 11 rebounds, going 9-for-9 from the field. Fellow forward Kate Koval also contributed significantly with 12 points and 11 rebounds. Five additional players scored in double figures, including:
- Bella Hines: 14 points
- MiLaysia Fulwiley: 11 points
- Flau’Jae Johnson: 10 points
- Jada Richard: 10 points
Coaching and Player Developments
Coach Kim Mulkey enters her fifth season at LSU, following another Elite Eight run last year. The roster includes key returning players, such as First-Team All-SEC selections Johnson and Mikaylah Williams, alongside important role players like Kailyn Gilbert and Izzy Besselman.
LSU also strengthened its roster through strategic transfers. Notable additions include Fulwiley from South Carolina, Joyner from East Carolina, and Koval from Notre Dame. The freshman class, which has been touted as the best in the nation, includes five-star recruits such as Bella Hines, ZaKiyah Johnson, Divine Bourrage, and Grace Knox, all ranked among the top-24 players in the country.
Houston Christian Team Overview
The Houston Christian Huskies will be led by first-year head coach Drew Long. His squad features four returning players from last season, alongside seven transfers and three incoming freshmen, setting the stage for an exciting matchup against the Tigers.
