Full Breakdown
LSU Tigers Fall to South Carolina in SEC Tournament Semifinals
3/8/2026, 6:09:02 AM
SEC Tournament Semifinal Overview
On March 7, 2026, the LSU Tigers faced the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) Tournament semifinals, suffering an 83-77 defeat. This loss marked LSU's 19th consecutive defeat to South Carolina, extending their winless streak against the Gamecocks since 2012. Despite a promising first half where LSU led 40-36, South Carolina regained momentum in the second half, ultimately securing their place in the SEC Championship game.
Key Performers and Game Dynamics
LSU's MiLaysia Fulwiley, a former South Carolina player, led the Tigers with a season-high 24 points, significantly improving from her previous performance against the Gamecocks. Jada Richard and Mikaylah Williams contributed 17 and 14 points, respectively. However, Flau'jae Johnson struggled, scoring only six points on 1-of-8 shooting. South Carolina's Raven Johnson shone with a career-high 22 points, supported by Ta’Niya Latson's 19 points and Joyce Edwards' double-double of 18 points and 11 rebounds.
The game was characterized by a back-and-forth battle, with LSU initially taking the lead but unable to maintain it as South Carolina outscored them in the second half. LSU's inability to capitalize on free throws and key moments, particularly in the final minutes, proved detrimental.
Coaching Perspectives and Strategic Decisions
LSU head coach Kim Mulkey expressed frustration over the team's late-game execution, particularly regarding a missed opportunity to foul when trailing by five points with 45 seconds remaining. Mulkey stated, "There’s just a small margin of error that you can have to beat elite teams. We think we’re an elite team, but we’re not there to win those close games." She emphasized the importance of learning from these moments, indicating that the team needs to improve its composure in high-pressure situations.
Mulkey acknowledged the challenge of competing against a seasoned program like South Carolina, led by coach Dawn Staley, who has built a strong foundation over 18 years. "It takes time to lay that foundation," Mulkey noted, highlighting the ongoing development of her own program at LSU.
Implications for NCAA Tournament
Despite the loss, LSU remains in a favorable position for the upcoming NCAA Tournament, projected as a No. 2 seed, which would be their highest seeding under Mulkey. The team will look to regroup and focus on their performance as they prepare for Selection Sunday on March 15.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics of LSU's performance pointed to the team's failure to execute critical plays in the final moments of the game. Mulkey's decision-making and the players' execution were scrutinized, with some questioning the team's mental readiness in high-stakes situations.
Verbatim Quotes
- “There’s just a small margin of error to beat elite teams, we think we are an elite team but we’re not there to win those close games,” — Kim Mulkey, LSU Head Coach
- “It takes time to lay that foundation.” — Kim Mulkey, on building a competitive program
- “We were supposed to. We had two fouls to give. It was not that decision, I can tell you. We were going to go trap. We didn’t do it. There’s just a small margin of error that you can have to beat elite teams.” — Kim Mulkey, reflecting on late-game strategy
The outcome of this semifinal match underscores the ongoing rivalry between LSU and South Carolina, as well as the challenges LSU faces in its quest to establish itself among the elite teams in women's college basketball.
