Tempers flared during the thrilling clash between the LSU Tigers and Oklahoma Sooners women's basketball teams, culminating in the ejection of two players early on. The highly anticipated matchup took place on January 30, 2025, at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center, where both teams have been competing fiercely as newly minted SEC rivals.
With both teams ranked—Oklahoma at No. 13 and LSU at No. 5—the stakes were high right from the tip-off. Just over four minutes left in the opening quarter saw tensions erupt when LSU forward Sa'Myah Smith and Oklahoma center Beatrice Culliton became entangled under the basket. Following the whistle, the situation escalated quickly when Smith shoved Culliton to the ground, prompting Sooners forward Liz Scott to retaliate. Coaches and players rushed to separate the combatants, but the damage had been done. The referees convened to review the incident, resulting in ejections for both Smith and Scott.
The referees, having deemed the altercation a fight, ruled both players would also face suspensions during their teams’ next games, as per SEC rules. This incident not only left their respective teams handicapped but also set the tone for what became a tumultuous game.
Despite the rocky start, LSU managed to maintain its composure. At the end of the first quarter, LSU trailed by just three points, with Oklahoma leading 23-20. Oklahoma initiated the game with impressive offensive tactics, highlighted by key contributions from Payton Verhulst, who scored ten of her eventual 26 points within the first quarter. The Sooners started strong, leading through much of the first period and eventually held onto the advantage until midway through the second quarter.
That’s when the Tigers found their rhythm, outscoring Oklahoma 32-19 during the second quarter. LSU's Mikaylah Williams spearheaded the offensive surge, contributing significantly with 37 points, showing her prowess on the court. The Tigers’ strategy of aggressive driving and accurate shooting from beyond the arc proved effective as they utilized their depth and talent to their advantage.
Both teams, still reeling from the adjustments following the ejections, faced other bouts of contention throughout the game. Oklahoma head coach Jennie Baranczyk received a technical foul for vehemently contesting officiated calls, reflecting the intensified emotions clearing permeated the contest. This was coupled with LSU's Aalyah Del Rosario receiving a flagrant foul for physical play, illustrating how both teams were willing to push their limits amid the passionate rivalry.
By halftime, LSU had flipped the script, leading 52-42, thanks to their ability to capitalize on Oklahoma’s mistakes, including forcing 16 turnovers from the Sooners. Oklahoma struggled with their shooting, reflecting their on-going challenges following the early setbacks and defensive pressure from LSU.
The second half showcased Los Tigers' resilience. LSU stretched their lead to as much as 24 points, appearing poised for what could be seen as an easy victory. Yet, the Sooners did not go quietly. They rallied late, pushing hard to close the gap, thanks to continuous scoring from players like Raegan Beers, who shot 8 of 8 from the field, contributing significantly to the comeback effort. The Sooners demonstrated grit, trimming the lead down and setting the stage for exciting and tense final moments.
Oklahoma kept the heat on, with key shots including Reyna Scott hitting timely jumpers to narrow the gap. But each time they threatened to complete the comeback, LSU responded with clutch shots from Williams, who sank multiple three-pointers to maintain the Tigers' lead. LSU’s controlled gameplay under pressure was evident as they secured the victory with a final score of 107-100.
This game not only highlighted the competition between two powerful SEC teams, but it also underscored the rivalry fueled by previous encounters and recent conference shifts. With the win, LSU improved their record to 21-1, continuing to assert dominance, especially within the conference. Meanwhile, Oklahoma's record stands at 16-5, with work to do to regain their momentum as they prepare for their next matchup against Kentucky.
Looking forward, LSU’s Smith and Oklahoma's Scott will both be missed on the court during their team’s subsequent games, and both squads will need to strategize their approaches moving forward, especially as they face formidable opponents eyeing the top spots within the SEC. The aftermath of this clash will be felt through upcoming matchups, as teams buckle down for what promises to be another exciting season of women's college basketball.