The LSU Tigers women’s basketball team is set to kick off their Southeastern Conference (SEC) play against the Kentucky Wildcats. This crucial match will take place on January 1 at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The fifth-ranked Tigers, who are enjoying a 14-game winning streak this season, will face the eleventh-ranked Wildcats at 7 p.m. CT. Fans can watch the game on SEC Network +, featuring commentary from Lyn Rollins and Victor Howell.
LSU vs. Kentucky: A Rivalry Renewed
LSU enters this matchup with a strong record against Kentucky, having won their last three encounters. Historically, the Tigers boast a 38-18 advantage over the Wildcats since their rivalry began in 1982. Particularly impressive is LSU’s home record against Kentucky; they have won 17 out of 22 meetings at the PMAC. Kentucky’s last victory in Baton Rouge was in 2019, when they narrowly edged out LSU with a score of 64-60.
Coaching Matchup
This game also marks a pivotal moment for both head coaches. Kim Mulkey from LSU and Kenny Brooks from Kentucky have clashed in three previous seasons, with Mulkey’s Tigers claiming victory each time. Notably, during Brooks’ tenure at Virginia Tech, LSU defeated his team in two significant contests, including a 79-72 win in the 2023 Final Four.
New Year’s Day History
- This will be LSU’s seventh game on New Year’s Day in program history.
- Previously, they faced an SEC competitor, Vanderbilt, in the 2022-23 season, winning 88-63.
- LSU first played on New Year’s Day against St. Bonaventure in 1995.
- Overall, the Tigers hold a 4-2 record in New Year’s Day games.
Current Tigers’ Performance
As one of the twelve undefeated teams nationwide, LSU is among five SEC teams still without a loss. In their last game against Alabama State, the Tigers forced 36 turnovers, tying the program record with 27 steals. This remarkable defensive effort matches a previous high set in 2004 against Southern Miss.
Sophomore forward Kate Koval led the scoring in the last matchup with a double-double: 23 points and 11 rebounds. Additionally, junior MiLaysia Fulwiley made significant contributions, with a near double-double, recording a career-high 11 assists alongside eight steals.
Statistical Highlights
LSU leads the nation in several key categories, showcasing their dominance this season:
| Category | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Bench Points Per Game | 49.7 |
| Field Goal Percentage | 54.8% |
| Free Throw Attempts Per Game | 28.00 |
| Rebounds | 717 |
| Rebound Margin | 23.7 |
| Offensive Rebounds Per Game | 20.4 |
| Scoring Margin | 55.4 |
| Scoring Offense | 108.0 |
| Steals | 228 |
As the Tigers prepare for their SEC opener against Kentucky, fans can expect an exciting and competitive matchup in Baton Rouge. The team’s current form and historic performance against the Wildcats make them confident contenders as they venture into conference play.
