Following the January 24, 2025, game where the No. 2 South Carolina Gamecocks defeated the No. 5 LSU Tigers 66-56, both head coaches shared their perspectives in post-game press conferences.
Kim Mulkey, LSU Head Coach:
Coach Mulkey emphasized that, despite the loss, this game was not the pinnacle of their season. She stated, "This isn't the biggest game of the year. Y'all might think it is, but it's not." Mulkey highlighted the importance of the NCAA Tournament as the true measure of success, noting that since her tenure at LSU began, the Tigers have secured a national championship, while South Carolina has claimed two. Reflecting on the matchup, she expressed confidence in her team's abilities, saying, "I learned we can hang with the best in the country. And I do think they're the best in the country."
She also acknowledged the depth of South Carolina's roster, humorously questioning, "I don't think I've ever coached against a team that had 10 McDonald's All-Americans on the roster. How do you even get 10?" Defending her players' performances, Mulkey pointed out junior guard Flau'jae Johnson's effective defense against South Carolina's Te-Hina Paopao and praised junior forward Aneesah Morrow for achieving a double-double.
"I don't know that I've ever coached against a team that has 10 McDonald's All-Americans on a roaster... How do you even keep 10 on a roster?"#LSU HC Kim Mulkey on the talent and depth @GamecockWBB displayed in tonight's big win. @abc_columbia pic.twitter.com/qMDqCFPcI0
— Chaz R Frazier (@Chazf_tv) January 25, 2025
Dawn Staley, South Carolina Head Coach:
Coach Staley commended her team's defensive efforts and resilience throughout the game. She highlighted the significance of maintaining focus against a formidable opponent like LSU and praised her players for executing the game plan effectively. Staley also acknowledged the contributions from her bench players, emphasizing the depth and versatility of the team. She expressed satisfaction with the win but noted areas for improvement as the season progresses.
The South Carolina Gamecocks women's basketball team is scheduled to face the No. 17 Tennessee Lady Volunteers on Monday, January 27, 2025, at Thompson-Boling Arena in Knoxville, Tennessee. The game will be broadcast on ESPN2.
Following this matchup, the Gamecocks will host the Auburn Tigers on Sunday, February 2, 2025, at Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, South Carolina.