The Tigers go west to play No. 15 Oklahoma on Monday night.

The Tigers Travel West for a Critical Clash with Oklahoma

On Monday night, the LSU Tigers will head west to face the No. 15 Oklahoma Sooners in what promises to be a captivating showdown in the NCAA Women’s Basketball scene. As both teams are chasing lofty postseason aspirations, this matchup is bound to carry major implications, not only in terms of rankings but also in the momentum that each squad will hope to gain as the season heads toward its final stretch.

The Oklahoma Sooners (17-6) have been a top contender throughout the 2024-2025 season, consistently hovering near the upper echelons of the rankings. On the other hand, LSU (12-11) has fought through ups and downs, trying to find its rhythm as they head into one of the toughest stretches of their schedule. While Oklahoma is enjoying a more stable campaign, LSU’s resilience and high-potential squad make this matchup intriguing for a variety of reasons.

The Big Picture: A High Stakes Contest

When two teams like Oklahoma and LSU face off, you can expect a clash of contrasting styles. Oklahoma has been one of the most potent offensive teams in the country, averaging over 86 points per game and showcasing one of the most prolific scoring units in the NCAA. This high-scoring, fast-paced offense has been a hallmark of their success this season, led by a cast of dynamic, experienced players who can hurt you in a variety of ways.

In contrast, LSU, despite its 12-11 record, has proven to be a defensively-minded team capable of frustrating opponents and keeping games close. While they have struggled to be consistent on offense, their defense has allowed them to stay competitive. If LSU is to come away with a victory in this matchup, they will need to rely heavily on disrupting Oklahoma’s high-powered offense while being efficient in their own scoring opportunities.

Oklahoma’s High-Octane Offense: Key Players

The Sooners’ success begins with their offensive firepower. The team is loaded with talent and depth, making them one of the hardest teams to stop once they hit their stride.

Payton Verhulst (Guard)

Payton Verhulst has been the heart and soul of Oklahoma’s attack this season. Averaging nearly 19 points per game, Verhulst is a multi-faceted guard who can score in a variety of ways. Whether it’s shooting from long-range, finishing at the rim, or creating for others, Verhulst is a player who can take over a game and change its complexion. LSU will need to devise a strategy to contain Verhulst’s ability to break down defenses, both as a scorer and a playmaker.

Verhulst’s leadership and basketball IQ make her a dangerous weapon in transition and in half-court sets. Expect her to be the focal point of Oklahoma’s offense, and LSU’s ability to stop her will be a critical factor in determining the game’s outcome.

Raegan Beers (Forward)

Another standout for Oklahoma is forward Raegan Beers. The senior forward has been dominant in the paint, averaging a double-digit scoring performance and contributing crucial rebounds. Her size, strength, and skill make her a tough matchup for any defender. LSU’s frontcourt will need to find a way to neutralize Beers’ ability to finish inside and crash the boards.

Beers also plays an essential role in Oklahoma’s defensive schemes. She’s been a force blocking shots and altering opponents’ offensive sets. If LSU cannot find a way to contain her, Oklahoma will have a significant advantage in the paint on both ends of the court.

The Supporting Cast

In addition to Verhulst and Beers, Oklahoma boasts a deep roster with other players capable of stepping up in big moments. Players like Taylor Robertson, Madi Williams, and Ana Llanusa provide additional scoring threats and make the Sooners a team that requires constant attention on both ends of the floor. Each of these players has the ability to stretch the floor with their shooting or contribute in the post with rebounds and inside points. This depth makes Oklahoma dangerous, as opposing defenses cannot key in on just one or two players.

LSU’s Defensive Strategy: Keys to Success

To counter Oklahoma’s explosive offense, LSU will need to implement a defensive game plan that disrupts the Sooners’ rhythm and forces them to take difficult shots. While LSU is not known for its offensive firepower, the Tigers’ ability to play lock-down defense could be the deciding factor in this contest.

Frontcourt Defense and Rebounding

LSU’s defensive strength often comes from its ability to defend the paint and limit second-chance opportunities. Oklahoma’s strength lies in its ability to score inside, particularly through Beers and the rest of their forwards. LSU’s forwards, including Angel Reese and LaDazhia Williams, will need to protect the rim and limit Beers’ scoring opportunities while also contesting any shots taken by Oklahoma’s outside shooters.

Perimeter Defense and Transition Play

While Oklahoma is potent inside, the Sooners’ three-point shooting ability makes them dangerous at all levels of the court. LSU must remain diligent in closing out on shooters and contesting perimeter shots. Oklahoma thrives in transition, and LSU will have to slow the pace of the game to avoid getting caught in an up-tempo battle. Slowing down the game to a half-court setting will force Oklahoma into more predictable offensive possessions, allowing LSU to set up its defense and limit easy fast-break opportunities.

Key Players for LSU

Though LSU is more focused on defense, it will need a few key players to step up on the offensive end. Angel Reese has been a standout performer, both scoring and rebounding with consistency. Her presence in the paint will be critical, as LSU will need to capitalize on every scoring opportunity, especially with Oklahoma’s defensive vulnerabilities in the post.

Additionally, LSU’s guard play, including Flau’jae Johnson, will be pivotal in keeping the Sooners’ defense off balance. Johnson’s ability to attack the rim and create for her teammates could be a game-changer, particularly if she can drive into the heart of Oklahoma’s defense and draw fouls to put pressure on their key players.

Game Preview: A Clash of Styles

This game will likely feature contrasting playing styles: Oklahoma’s high-scoring, fast-paced offense versus LSU’s grind-it-out, defensive-first mentality. For LSU to be successful, they will need to make this a low-scoring game where they can control the tempo and keep Oklahoma from getting into a rhythm.

Oklahoma, conversely, will want to push the tempo, create open shot opportunities for their shooters, and capitalize on LSU’s offensive mistakes. If Oklahoma can get out in transition and avoid getting bogged down in half-court sets, they will likely run away with the game.

The key for LSU will be limiting second-chance points, making the most of their opportunities in transition, and forcing turnovers that can lead to easy baskets. Meanwhile, Oklahoma will look to exploit LSU’s scoring inefficiencies, push the ball up the floor, and use their depth and scoring threats to overwhelm LSU’s defense.

 What’s at Stake

With postseason play just around the corner, both Oklahoma and LSU need this victory to improve their standings and build momentum heading into the final stretch of the regular season. For Oklahoma, a win would solidify their position as one of the top teams in the country and reinforce their credentials as a title contender. For LSU, this game represents a chance to prove they can compete with elite teams and build confidence heading into the postseason.

As both teams take the floor on Monday night, expect an exciting and intense battle filled with high stakes, dynamic performances, and pivotal moments. This game is a must-watch for college basketball fans, and the outcome will have a significant impact on the trajectory of both teams as they approach the final weeks of the season.