Duke, the No. 3 seed, defeated the No. 2 seed LSU women's basketball team 87-85 in the Sweet 16 round of the NCAA Tournament. The game was decided by a three-pointer from Duke's Ashlon Jackson as time expired, marking her first career game-winning shot. This pivotal victory advances Duke to the Elite Eight, while LSU's season concludes.
The contest took place in the Sacramento 2 Regional. Duke's victory avenged an earlier season loss to LSU and extended their recent record to 24 wins in their last 26 games. LSU's season ended with a 29-6 record, marking their fourth consecutive appearance in the Sweet 16.
Key Game Moments
LSU opened the scoring with two free throws from Mikaylah Williams, but Duke responded with a decisive 9-0 run. Duke held a 24-19 lead at the end of the first quarter.
In the second quarter, Duke extended its lead to 11 points following a three-pointer by Taina Mair. LSU reduced the deficit, with Duke maintaining a 47-40 lead at halftime. MiLaysia Fulwiley was a key contributor, scoring 18 of LSU's points in the first half.
LSU made an 11-5 run in the third quarter, taking a 53-52 lead. The teams then exchanged points, and Duke managed to hold a 67-65 advantage at the close of the quarter.
Duke began the fourth quarter with an 11-4 run, establishing a 78-67 lead. LSU gradually closed the gap with an impressive 18-7 run, taking an 85-84 lead with just 9.2 seconds remaining on two free throws from Williams. After a missed three-pointer by Taina Mair, Duke regained possession with 2.6 seconds left, leading to Jackson's decisive game-winning three-pointer as time expired.
Player Performances
For Duke, Taina Mair and Toby Fournier each scored 22 points. Ashlon Jackson contributed 19 points, including the memorable game-winning shot.
LSU's offense was led by MiLaysia Fulwiley, who scored a career-high 28 points, along with four rebounds, four assists, one steal, and one block. Mikaylah Williams added 22 points and five rebounds, while Flau'Jae Johnson contributed 13 points.
Tournament Outlook and Post-Game
With the victory, Duke's overall record improved to 27-8. They are now set to face top-seeded UCLA in the Elite Eight of the Sacramento 2 Region on Sunday. UCLA advanced to this stage after defeating Minnesota in their regional semifinal.
Following the game, LSU coach Kim Mulkey addressed social media reports regarding her potential retirement, denying the claims. She affirmed her intention to remain with the team, stating plans to hire new coaches and recruit additional players. Notably, Ashlon Jackson received messages after the game, including one from NBA player Kevin Durant.