Instant Analysis: LSU makes a statement in win against No. 9 Virginia Tech in Angel Reese’s return

Angel Reese’s return helped lead LSU to an 18-point win over a top-10 opponent.

The No. 7 LSU women’s basketball team made a statement at home on Thursday night, taking down No. 9 Virginia Tech to move to 8-1 on the young season as coach [autotag]Kim Mulkey[/autotag] earned her 700th career win.

The Tigers had a very sloppy start offensively and had more turnovers (seven) than made field goals (four) in the first quarter. The Hokies led by as much as nine in the opening frame, but LSU quickly turned the tables.

Coach Kim Mulkey’s team outscored Virginia Tech 22-9 in the second quarter, shooting 50% for the period as VT missed its final seven field goals of the half and recorded none in the final 4:50.

LSU claimed a 35-29 lead at halftime with [autotag]Aneesah Morrow[/autotag] leading the way as she nearly totaled a double-double in the first half with 11 points and nine rebounds.

The Tigers would only continue to stretch that lead in the second half, in which they shot 61.3% and led by as much as 22.

Morrow finished with a 19-point, 15-rebound double-double, while [autotag]Mikaylah Williams[/autotag] led the way offensively with 20 points. In her return to the court, [autotag]Angel Reese[/autotag] nearly also recorded a double-double with 19 points and nine rebounds.

Her return had a major impact as LSU dominated the boards, outrebounding Virginia Tech 43-29. The Tigers played a much cleaner game in the final 20 minutes and only had four turnovers in the second half.

LSU has passed its last major non-conference test, and it will likely be moving back up in the rankings with the win. Mulkey’s team will next take the court on Dec. 10 when it hosts Louisiana.

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