Angel Reese and Flau’jae Johnson gave an out-and-out performance at a packed PMAC to help LSU crush the Dolphins 110-68. With this win, they end their non-conference campaign with a resounding 13-1 record.
The LSU Tigers hosted the Jacksonville Dolphins on Saturday night. Angel Reese & Co. took the court looking adamant about ending their successful year on a high as they searched for their 13th consecutive NCAA win.
The reigning national champions made the usual start to their opening quarter, leading the Dolphins by 10 points in the initial minutes. Further, the returning Van Lith was on absolute fire with her effective and accurate shooting from beyond the arc. Surprisingly, she buried three 3-pointers in the opening 6 minutes of the game.
Flau’jae Johnson also joined in to further improve LSU’s numbers from the 3-point range. As a result, the Tigers scored 18 of their first 23 points from long-range shots as they led Jacksonville 29-13 by the end of the first quarter.
Things were no different in the second quarter. The All-American forward Angel Reese further asserted LSU’s dominance, capitalizing with her 12 rebounds. At half-time, the defending champions were in a comfortable position with a 51-33 score.
Flau’jae Johnson began the second half burying a picture-perfect 3. She joined forces with Angel Reese and widened the gap between the two teams in the third quarter. Furthermore, Reese was quick to get her double-double for the night as she ended with 17 points and 19 rebounds.
At the same time, Johnson got past the 20-point mark and finished with a season-high 20 points and 5 rebounds. Additionally, freshman guard Mikaylah Williams and star transfer Aneesah Morrow also played their part in assuring LSU’s firm grip on the game. Morrow registered another double-double, as she had 20 points and 10 rebounds to her name.
It was all too easy for them in the final 10 minutes as they crossed the 100-point mark for the 6th time this season. The eventual scoreboard read 110-68 in favor of the defending champions.
Hailey Van Lith impresses on her return
After being out of action for four games, point guard Hailey Van Lith made her comeback for the Lady Tigers in their final fixture of 2023. Apparently, the dynamic No.11 has been out of action due to a nagging plantar fasciitis in her foot. Van Lith came out all guns blazing in LSU’s resounding win. The 5 ft 7 star got her groove on with a double-digit score. The 2020 Washington Ms. Basketball ended her outing with 11 points, 5 assists, and 1 rebound.
The defending champions have made a perfect end to their 2023. It seems that they are ready for their Southeastern Conference play which will begin on Jan. 4. Also, with all their key players in top form, it will be extremely difficult to stop them as they approach their second consecutive title.
