Final score of Tennessee vs. LSU: Mulkey, Tigers win a close SEC game

The Game Overview: Tennessee vs. LSU – A Thriller in Baton Rouge

On February 9, 2025, the LSU Tigers defeated the Tennessee Lady Vols 82-77 in an electrifying SEC clash that kept fans on the edge of their seats. This game wasn’t just any ordinary SEC showdown; it was a battle for supremacy, with both teams having so much to prove. The victory marked a historic achievement for LSU, as they completed their first-ever season sweep of Tennessee in the program’s history. The final score reflected the fierce competitiveness on display, with both teams battling through every quarter, and the result came down to the final moments of the game.

The Importance of the Game for LSU and Tennessee

For LSU, this victory held monumental weight, not only because it secured a season sweep over a top-tier rival but also because it solidified their position near the top of the Southeastern Conference (SEC). LSU, led by Head Coach Kim Mulkey, is a team on a mission to claim supremacy in the conference and make a deep run in the NCAA tournament. Tennessee, under their coach, was hungry for redemption after losing their previous match against the Tigers earlier in the season, and this loss further complicated their quest for a higher tournament seed.

In college basketball, every game within the conference plays a huge role in shaping the postseason picture, and for Tennessee, this loss to LSU would be a hard pill to swallow as they battle for a potential top spot in the bracket.

First Quarter: The Initial Push

As the game began, the energy in the Pete Maravich Assembly Center was palpable. LSU quickly jumped to a 4-0 lead, establishing early dominance on both ends of the court. However, Tennessee, never one to back down, responded with precision, leveling the score at 9-9 within the first five minutes. The Lady Vols showed their defensive mettle as they transitioned seamlessly from defense to offense, capitalizing on LSU’s early missteps.

By the time we hit the 5:01 mark, Tennessee had grabbed a 11-9 lead following an impressive steal by Zee Spearman, which led to a transition layup by Jewel Spear, one of their star players. It was clear that this was going to be a back-and-forth affair, with both teams answering each other’s runs with confidence and poise.

LSU was relentless, with each possession executed with a focus on attacking the rim and stretching the floor. Despite their efforts, Tennessee’s defensive resilience kept them within striking distance, and the first quarter concluded with the Tigers leading by just two points, 22-20.

Second Quarter: The Lady Vols Fight Back

The second quarter began with LSU continuing to press their advantage, increasing their lead to 33-24 after some quick buckets. Tennessee wasn’t about to let this game slip away, and they launched a furious comeback midway through the quarter. Led by the scorching-hot shooting of Jewel Spear, who scored eight consecutive points, Tennessee’s offense came alive. Spear knocked down back-to-back three-pointers, bringing Tennessee back into the game. They quickly cut the deficit to 35-32 by the 4:45 media timeout, with the fans in attendance roaring with approval.

With the crowd in full support of the Lady Vols, Tennessee continued to capitalize on LSU’s defensive lapses. By halftime, the game had tightened significantly, with LSU holding on to a narrow 41-37 lead. Tennessee had weathered the storm and had not only managed to stay close but also showed they could compete with LSU on both ends of the floor.

The second quarter was critical for Tennessee. It demonstrated their resilience, their ability to counteract LSU’s momentum, and how they could rely on their stars like Spear to carry them when needed.

Third Quarter: A Momentum Shift

Coming out of halftime, Tennessee was determined to take control of the game. They came out of the locker room with newfound intensity, starting the third quarter on a 7-0 run. This surge gave them their first lead of the game, 44-41, as they capitalized on turnovers and poor shooting from LSU. For a brief moment, it seemed like Tennessee might be on the verge of pulling away.

But LSU wasn’t going to back down easily. The Tigers answered with a flurry of their own, going on a 14-8 run to regain a 55-52 lead with 3:42 remaining in the quarter. The game was teetering back and forth, and both teams were showing incredible offensive efficiency. As the third quarter drew to a close, LSU managed to finish strong and hold a 62-57 lead.

At this point, it was clear that every possession counted. Both teams were fully locked into their respective game plans, with Tennessee relying on their outside shooting, while LSU was dominating inside and on the fast break. The back-and-forth nature of the game kept fans on their toes, with the intensity only increasing as the fourth quarter loomed.

Fourth Quarter: Down to the Wire

The final quarter of the game was perhaps the most thrilling and dramatic, filled with emotional highs and tense moments. Tennessee, determined not to lose, came out of the gates with a 7-0 run, taking a 64-62 lead with just over eight minutes remaining. The Lady Vols had found their rhythm and seemed poised to take control of the game, but LSU wasn’t going to be outdone.

Flau’Jae Johnson, the talented LSU guard, hit some clutch shots, and together with her teammates, LSU managed to swing the momentum back in their favor. With a quick 9-2 burst, LSU regained a 71-66 lead with five minutes to play. The game had turned into a true battle of wills, with every player on both sides leaving it all on the court.

As the clock continued to tick down, LSU expanded their lead to 76-68 with just over two minutes remaining. But Tennessee wasn’t finished yet. With a mixture of aggressive defense and timely three-pointers, the Lady Vols quickly cut the deficit to 78-73 with 1:30 left in the game, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.

However, LSU showed their poise in the closing moments, with Kailyn Gilbert—one of the stars of the game—hitting two crucial free throws and sealing the victory. The Tigers held on to their 82-77 lead as Tennessee ran out of time, and LSU celebrated a hard-fought win.

Key Performances: Who Shined?

Several standout performances shaped the outcome of this thrilling contest.

For LSU, Kailyn Gilbert was absolutely phenomenal. She led the Tigers with 23 points, scoring 21 of them in the second half. Gilbert’s ability to attack the basket, hit critical jump shots, and perform in clutch moments was instrumental in LSU’s victory. Her free-throw shooting in the final seconds was also crucial, showcasing her composure under pressure. Aneesah Morrow, the sophomore forward, recorded a double-double with 14 points and 14 rebounds, continuing her impressive season. Mikaylah Williams was another standout, contributing 16 points and tying her career-high with seven assists.

Tennessee’s star players also stepped up. Ruby Whitehorn, the junior guard, led the way with 21 points, providing the Lady Vols with the scoring they needed to stay competitive. Jewel Spear, who had been on fire throughout the game, finished with 19 points, including several big shots to keep her team within reach. Talaysia Cooper, another strong contributor for Tennessee, scored 16 points, while Zee Spearman added 15 points, continuing her all-around solid play.

Coaching Impact: Kim Mulkey’s Masterclass

Kim Mulkey’s impact on the game cannot be overstated. The legendary LSU head coach demonstrated once again why she’s one of the most successful and respected figures in women’s basketball. Her ability to make in-game adjustments, maintain her team’s composure, and implement effective strategies in both the offensive and defensive aspects of the game was crucial.

Mulkey’s leadership was on full display as she rallied her team through the tough moments, ensuring they remained focused despite Tennessee’s runs. Her decision-making and ability to manage her roster, especially in critical moments, allowed LSU to edge out their rivals.

On the other side, Tennessee’s head coach, while disappointed with the loss, could take solace in his team’s effort. The Lady Vols showed great resilience, and their fight throughout the game was a testament to their potential. Both teams executed their strategies well, and the game came down to individual brilliance, team defense, and who could capitalize on the small moments.

 A Game to Remember

In the end, the 82-77 victory for LSU not only gave them a crucial win in the SEC standings but also provided them with a major confidence boost as they continue their quest for a deep run in the NCAA tournament. This historic season sweep over Tennessee will be remembered as one of the defining moments of the season.

Tennessee, despite the loss, proved they can compete with the best in the conference, and their fight throughout the game will surely give them motivation as they prepare for future challenges.

This game was a reminder of the unpredictable nature of college basketball, where momentum shifts, individual performances, and coaching decisions can ultimately decide the outcome. For LSU, it was a well-earned victory that showcased their depth, talent, and determination.