In a game full of high stakes, the No. 6 LSU Tigers (25-1, 10-1 SEC) pulled off a historic win over No. 19 Tennessee Lady Volunteers (17-6, 4-6 SEC) on Sunday.
It marked the first time in program history the Tigers swept the Lady Vols in a season. Kailyn Gilbert’s explosive second half, where she scored 21 of her 23 total points, was a key factor in the 82-77 victory.
Kailyn Gilbert’s Big Second Half Powers LSU to Historic Win Over Tennessee
Gilbert, who had been struggling with her shooting in recent weeks, found her rhythm in the second half, leading LSU through a crucial stretch in the game. Despite foul trouble for two of the Tigers’ top players — Flau’Jae Johnson and Aneesah Morrow — Gilbert carried the team with her scoring and clutch plays.
Tennessee head coach Kim Caldwell praised Gilbert’s performance in the post-game conference.
“Yeah, she was phenomenal today. I think we did a really good job of recognizing that and adjusting to that. She kills our play, too,” Caldwell said. “We plan on getting her to do a better job on her. She did such a good job of finding her spot, getting big shots, getting other people in the game just by getting the crowd into it, really. She made a big play. She’s a good player.”
Tennessee coach Kim Caldwell on Kailyn Gilbert:
“We did a bad job of recognizing how she affects the game. That’s the second time she’s killed us.”#LSU pic.twitter.com/Xnd7hU834H
— Cory Diaz (@ByCoryDiaz) February 9, 2025
Gilbert’s performance was critical for LSU, especially with two key players off the court. Her 23 points on 7-of-15 shooting helped the Tigers maintain their lead and close out the game strong. Over the previous seven games, Gilbert had struggled significantly, making just 8-of-28 shots.
However, her turnaround against Tennessee showcased her ability to bounce back and deliver when the team needed her most.
While Gilbert’s scoring was essential to the win, LSU’s bench also stepped up when the team faced adversity. Mjracle Sheppard contributed eight points and five rebounds, while freshman Jada Richard added five points in just five minutes of play.
The bench’s ability to contribute in a meaningful way while key players sat due to foul trouble was a major factor in LSU’s victory.
LSU head coach Kim Mulkey also acknowledged the significance of the bench’s performance.
“That might have been where the game was won because when you take two of your three main players, and they are sitting over there on the bench, you wonder how your bench and your players that you have on the floor are going to respond, and I thought they handled themselves beautifully,” Mulkey said.
The bench provided valuable minutes, ensuring LSU could maintain their momentum and control the game while their stars were off the court.
Gilbert’s Shooting Slump Comes to an End
Gilbert’s big performance marked the end of a month-long shooting slump. Before Sunday’s game, Gilbert had missed 45 of the 53 shots she had taken over the previous seven games.
However, she came alive against Tennessee, making 7 of 15 attempts and delivering in critical moments. Her 23-point game helped LSU secure a crucial win, proving that she can still be relied upon even after a tough stretch.
Gilbert had a similar standout performance in LSU’s earlier win over Tennessee on Jan. 9, where she scored 22 points, including a game-winning shot. This back-to-back 20-point performance against the Lady Vols further proved her ability to produce when it matters.
For both games against Tennessee, she averaged 23 points per game while shooting 50% from the field. Gilbert’s consistency in these high-pressure matchups helped propel LSU to victory, solidifying her importance to the team.
Sunday’s win over Tennessee was not only a significant one for Gilbert but also for LSU as a whole. The Tigers made history by sweeping the Lady Vols for the first time in program history.
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The win was a testament to the team’s depth and resilience, with Gilbert leading the charge but also receiving strong contributions from her teammates. The bench’s performance, combined with Gilbert’s scoring and leadership, was key to LSU maintaining control of the game despite the absence of their star players.
Gilbert’s performance, in particular, was a turning point for LSU, ending her shooting slump and helping to secure a vital win in front of a home crowd. With the NCAA Tournament approaching, LSU’s depth and Gilbert’s ability to step up in big moments will be critical as they aim for a strong postseason run.
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