TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — The Alabama Crimson Tide pulled off a thrilling 88-85 overtime victory against the No. 7 ranked LSU Tigers on February 27, 2025, marking one of the most significant moments for the Alabama women's basketball program this season.
With only four seconds remaining in overtime, Essence Cody made the game-sealing play, blocking Mikaylah Williams’ layup attempt to give Alabama the upset win at Coleman Coliseum. The victory continues Alabama’s ascent as they have now emerged as formidable competitors within the league, demonstrating resilience and determination to win without their leading scorer, Aaliyah Nye, who fouled out with just under four minutes left to play.
Williams had led LSU through competing performances across the game and concluded with 22 points, surpassing the 1,000 career points mark during the match. "It’s tough. I think we played well but we've got to close games. Every single point counts at this level," Williams stated after the game.
Despite her contributions, the Tigers struggled to execute under pressure against Alabama's strong defense, with the Tide controlling the boards and stifling the Tigers’ scoring opportunities. Alabama finished with 43 rebounds to LSU’s 37, with much of their success driven by both half-court press and aggressive paint play. A significant portion of their points—44—came from inside the paint, which proved to be pivotal.
While Alabama reignited their energy early on with effective defense and crisp ball distribution, including standout performances from Sarah Ashlee Barker, who led the Tide with 21 points, the game was heavily influenced by foul troubles for both teams. The matchup was marred by 39 total foul calls and several video reviews, complicatively hindering the game's flow. Coach Mulkey described the officiation as poor, acknowledging the influence it had on the game but still recognizing Alabama’s deserving triumph.
"It was a poorly officiated game,” said Kim Mulkey, LSU's head coach. “Too much stoppage. I will say they had nothing to do with us losing. Alabama deserved to win.” Her perspective highlighted the frustrations of both teams throughout the physical match but expressed recognition for Alabama’s consistent pressure.
Aaliyah Nye had been explosive, leading all scorers with 28 points prior to her dismissal from the game due to foul trouble. Her absence transformed the game dynamics later as Alabama had to lean on bench players to uphold their momentum. Players like Zaay Green and Essence Cody stepped up, with Green scoring 15 points, which underscored the depth and capability of Alabama's roster.
On the other side, LSU’s Flau’jae Johnson, typically reliable on offense, was limited to just six points throughout the evening after struggling with her shot. Johnson’s two for twelve shooting marked one of her most challenging games this season. Meanwhile, Aneesah Morrow contributed significantly, but the Tigers' inability to close out the competition eventually cost them the game.
Looking forward, Alabama's win positions them strongly as they prepare for the post-season, hinting at potential playoff prospects. Coach Kristy Curry refrained from celebrating prematurely, acknowledging the need for focus heading forward. "Coach (Kristy) Curry said players on the bench were going to have to step up... and they did. I’m proud of them,” echoed Barker following the hard-fought match.
Next, Alabama is set to take on Oklahoma, with heightened expectations as they build on this momentum. LSU, conversely, will attempt to rebound as they face Ole Miss, striving to capitalize and learn from their mistakes against Alabama.
The outcome of this exhilarating clash not only entertained fans but also showcased the increasing rivalry between these two SEC teams, promising excitement and unpredictability as the NCAA tournament draws near.