Upset at the PMAC: LSU Topples No. 2 Texas, 70–65

The Pete Maravich Assembly Center was electric — sold out, loud and pulsing with that particular kind of belief that only a packed college arena can generate. On January 11, 2026, LSU’s women’s basketball team fed off that energy and delivered a signature victory: a 70–65 win over No. 2 Texas. It wasn’t a blowout highlight reel, but a gritty, full-team performance that felt like the kind of game that can define a season.

Why this mattered

• Beating a top-two team at home changes perception. LSU’s 70–65 victory over an 18–0 Texas squad isn’t just one in the win column — it’s a statement that LSU can compete with the nation’s elite.
• Momentum and confidence are contagious. LSU had stumbled recently; this win provides a reset and shows resilience under Kim Mulkey’s leadership.
• The SEC shook a little bit. Texas remains a program to respect, but conference standings and March narratives are subtly different after a home upset like this.

The game in moments

• Slow first quarter, competitive first half: The teams traded baskets early and the first quarter ended tied 11–11. LSU closed the half with a buzzer-beater by Jada Richard to carry a five-point lead (30–25) into halftime. (LSU finished the half shooting 12-of-31.)
• Second-half toughness: LSU stretched its lead in the third and managed the Longhorns’ late rally in the fourth. Texas chipped away — including a 13–3 run that put the pressure on — but LSU hit the critical plays down the stretch to hold on.
• Paint and boards won it: LSU’s ability to rebound and convert inside proved decisive. The Tigers won the rebounding battle and limited Texas’s second-chance opportunities at key moments.
• Standouts: Mikaylah Williams led LSU with 20 points on 7-of-13 shooting and two 3s. For Texas, Madison Booker poured in 24 points (10-of-16), and Kyla Oldacre posted a 16/16 double-double in a losing effort.

Takeaways for fans and followers

• This was a full-team effort, not a one-player miracle. Multiple Tigers contributed double-figure scoring and timely defense.
• LSU’s home-court energy is real. A sold-out PMAC was a tangible advantage and the Tigers used it to control momentum at crucial stretches.
• Texas remains a top program — their late surge showed why they’re ranked — but LSU exposed vulnerabilities and earned a resume-boosting win that will matter on selection Sunday and in the polls.

Impact on both teams

• LSU: The win moves the Tigers to 16–2 and restores confidence after a couple of SEC stumbles. It validates Kim Mulkey’s message about toughness and should galvanize the roster for the stretch run.
• Texas: Falling to 18–1 halts an undefeated run and answers some questions about how the Longhorns respond to adversity away from home. They still have depth, star scoring and an elite resume, but this loss will give opponents hope and scouting material.

My take

Upsets like this boil down to more than X’s and O’s — they’re about identity and belief. LSU didn’t just outscore Texas; they played with a renewed edge and grabbed extra possessions when it mattered. That kind of win can be transformative, especially in a league as deep and competitive as the SEC. If LSU builds on this and tightens a few loose moments, they’ve shown they can be a dangerous team in March. And for Texas, the loss is a reminder that dominant records bring targets — and the best teams respond by learning fast.

Sources

• LSU Athletics — "LSU Takes Down Texas, 70-65" (January 11, 2026).
  https://lsusports.net/news/2026/01/11/lsu-takes-down-texas-70-65/
• University of Texas Athletics — "No. 2 Women's Basketball falls at No. 12 LSU, 70-65" (January 11, 2026).
  https://texaslonghorns.com/news/2026/1/11/no-2-womens-basketball-falls-at-no-12-lsu-70-65
• Burnt Orange Nation — "No. 2 Texas comes up short against No. 12 LSU, 70-65" (game recap).
  https://www.burntorangenation.com/texas-longhorns-womens-basketball/99896/texas-longhorns-65-lsu-tigers-70
• Louisiana Radio Network — "LSU Lady Tigers beat No. 2 Texas, 70-65" (January 12, 2026).
  https://louisianaradionetwork.com/2026/01/12/45002/

Iowa State without its scoring engine — but for how long?

There are few storylines in women’s college basketball right now as compelling as Audi Crooks’ season. She’s not just piling up points; she’s reshaping how opponents game-plan against the Cyclones. So when the nation’s leading scorer sat out Iowa State’s 81-53 win over Northern Iowa on Sunday, it felt like a reminder of how fragile momentum can be — and how deep this Cyclone roster might be when tested.

What happened (and why it matters)

• Audi Crooks, averaging about 27–28 points per game and leading Division I in scoring, did not play in the Cyclones’ Sunday win over Northern Iowa. (espn.com)
• The injury stems from a head impact Crooks suffered in Iowa State’s upset-style win over No. 11 Iowa earlier in the week; the school didn’t disclose specifics beyond saying she would finish return-to-play protocol early this week. Coach Bill Fennelly suggested Crooks could be available when Iowa State opens Big 12 play against Kansas next Sunday. (espn.com)
• In Crooks’ absence, junior Addy Brown stepped up with 28 points and 12 rebounds, underscoring that the Cyclones can still find ways to win without their superstar — at least in the short term. (kcci.com)

Why this is more than a one-game story

• Audi Crooks isn’t just a top scorer; she’s a central matchup problem. Teams defend Iowa State differently because of her: double teams, collapse-and-kick strategies, and adjustments that free up teammates. Losing such a player — even temporarily — forces a different offensive identity. (espn.com)
• How a team responds when its focal player is out reveals coaching, depth, and culture. Sunday’s 81-53 win showed resilience: balanced scoring, efficient 3-point shooting, and role players stepping into meaningful minutes. That matters most when the schedule tightens in conference play. (kcci.com)
• There’s also the player-health dimension. Head injuries and RTP (return-to-play) protocols are unpredictable; hoping for a return “next Sunday” is different from guaranteed availability. Managing Crooks’ health now could affect not just one game but the team’s season-long prospects.

What to watch this week

• Official updates from Iowa State on Crooks’ return-to-play status. The timeline the school gave is early this week, with optimism about availability next Sunday versus Kansas — but expect conservative, stepwise progress. (espn.com)
• How coach Bill Fennelly adjusts minutes and rotations if Crooks is cleared: will she return to starter minutes immediately, or will Iowa State ramp her up off the bench to limit contact and ease rhythm?
• Continued emergence of secondary scorers — Addy Brown’s performance Sunday matters. If Brown and others can sustain high-level contributions, Iowa State is less likely to be derailed by an absence. (kcci.com)

A few quick takeaways

• The Cyclones showed they can win convincingly without Crooks, which is a credit to their depth and coaching. (kcci.com)
• Crooks’ injury appears to be head-related; RTP protocols are in place and Iowa State is cautious — that’s the right call for a player of her importance. (espn.com)
• Her anticipated return versus Kansas would be a key early Big 12 moment; whether she plays could swing that matchup and set the tone for conference play. (espn.com)

My take

Talent like Audi Crooks’ is rare: elite scoring efficiency, game-to-game consistency, and the ability to change matchups. But the best teams aren’t only great when their superstar is healthy — they’re great enough that a star’s absence becomes an opportunity for growth. Iowa State showed glimpses of that Sunday. If Crooks returns fully healed, the Cyclones will be scarier. If her return is delayed, this team has taken an encouraging step toward being a true collective in 2025–26.

Sources

• Audi Crooks misses Iowa State win; could be back Sunday — ESPN.
  https://www.espn.com/womens-college-basketball/story/_/id/47309757/audi-crooks-misses-iowa-state-win-back-sunday

• Addy Brown leads No. 10 Iowa State past UNI as Crooks sits out — KCCI (AP coverage).
  https://www.kcci.com/article/addy-brown-leads-iowa-state-past-uni-without-crooks/69722550

• Addy Brown scores season-high 28 points in No. 10 Cyclones' 81-53 win over UNI, Audi Crooks sits out — FOX Sports (Associated Press).
  https://www.foxsports.com/articles/wcbk/addy-brown-scores-seasonhigh-28-points-in-no-10-cyclones-8153-win-over-uni-audi-crooks-sits-out

Cheryl Reeve Suspended: A Turning Point for the Lynx?

As the WNBA playoffs heat up, tensions are running even higher than usual for the Minnesota Lynx. Following a heartbreaking Game 3 loss to the Phoenix Mercury, the Lynx find themselves on the brink of elimination, and the stakes have never been higher. But it’s not just the players feeling the pressure—head coach Cheryl Reeve has been thrust into the spotlight for her passionate defense of her team after a controversial officiating call led to a suspension that could change the course of the playoffs.

Context: The Lynx’s Struggles and Reeve’s Fiery Rant

In the lead-up to the pivotal Game 4, Reeve’s emotions boiled over during her post-game press conference on Friday. After watching star player Napheesa Collier suffer an injury during Game 3—a game that ended in a loss for the Lynx—Reeve unleashed a scathing critique of the officials, calling out what she described as inconsistent and unfair calls that have plagued her team throughout the series.

Reeve’s impassioned rant resonated with fans and analysts alike, highlighting a growing sentiment regarding officiating in the league. Her comments were not merely about one game; they encapsulated a broader frustration within the WNBA community about how officiating can impact the outcome of crucial games, especially during the high-stakes playoff season.

However, the consequences of her outburst were swift. The WNBA announced that Reeve would be suspended for Game 4, a decision that leaves the Lynx without their head coach as they face elimination. This suspension raises questions about the impact of officiating and the pressures coaches and players face in a competitive league where every decision can make or break a season.

Key Takeaways

– Emotional Impact: Reeve’s passionate defense of her team underscores the emotional stakes involved in playoff basketball, especially when players like Collier are sidelined due to injuries.

– Officiating Controversies: The discussion around officiating in the WNBA has intensified, with many players and coaches advocating for improved accountability and consistency in calls, particularly during crucial playoff moments.

– Suspension Consequences: Reeve’s suspension places added pressure on the Lynx as they must navigate a critical Game 4 without their leader, potentially affecting team dynamics and game strategy.

– Team Resilience: The Lynx have shown resilience in the face of adversity throughout the season, and this challenge could either galvanize the team or expose vulnerabilities as they fight to keep their playoff hopes alive.

– Broader Implications: The incident raises broader questions about the league’s approach to officiating and how it affects team morale and performance during high-stakes games.

Conclusion: A Defining Moment for the Lynx

As the Lynx prepare for a do-or-die Game 4 against the Mercury, all eyes will be on how they adapt to the absence of their head coach. Will they rally together in the face of adversity, or will the pressure prove too much? One thing is clear: the outcome of this game will not only impact their playoff run but also serve as a pivotal moment in the ongoing conversation about officiating in the WNBA.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual observer, this is a moment to watch as the Lynx fight to keep their season alive. Let’s hope they channel that fiery spirit Reeve exhibited into their play on the court.

Sources

– Star Tribune: [Cheryl Reeve suspended for Game 4 Sunday against Phoenix with Lynx on brink of elimination](https://www.startribune.com/cheryl-reeve-suspended-game-4-sunday-phoenix-lynx-elimination/600303965/)

Italy’s Triumph at the Billie Jean King Cup 2025: Jasmine Paolini Shines

The Billie Jean King Cup has always been a stage for thrilling tennis moments, and the 2025 edition delivered just that. With Italy defending their title against a formidable United States team, all eyes were on Jasmine Paolini as she stepped up to secure Italy’s victory. The match was more than just a tennis showdown; it was a testament to skill, determination, and the spirit of competition.

A Quick Recap of the Billie Jean King Cup

For those who might not be familiar, the Billie Jean King Cup is one of the most prestigious team competitions in women’s tennis, akin to the Davis Cup for men. The tournament showcases some of the best female players from around the globe, and its rich history celebrates both the sport and the incredible journey of women in athletics. This year, Italy aimed to defend their title, having taken home the trophy in 2021, while the United States, with a strong lineup, sought to reclaim their dominance.

The Match: Italy vs. United States

In a high-stakes showdown, Jasmine Paolini faced Jessica Pegula in a match that was fraught with pressure. The air was thick with anticipation as fans cheered for their teams. Paolini, known for her fierce playing style and incredible resilience, showcased her skills brilliantly. She managed to outmaneuver Pegula, delivering powerful serves and precise groundstrokes that left the American player struggling to find her rhythm.

With the match hanging in the balance, Paolini’s composure under pressure was evident. Every point was fought fiercely, and as the final whistle blew, it was clear: Italy had successfully defended their title with a convincing 2-0 victory. This win not only solidified Italy’s status in women’s tennis but also marked a pivotal moment in Paolini’s career.

Key Takeaways

– Italy’s Dominance: With this victory, Italy has proven once again that they are a force to be reckoned with in women’s tennis, successfully defending their Billie Jean King Cup title.

– Jasmine Paolini’s Rising Star: Paolini’s performance against Pegula showcased her potential as one of the top players in the game, highlighting her ability to perform under pressure.

– The Importance of Team Spirit: The Billie Jean King Cup emphasizes the importance of teamwork and national pride, as players come together to represent their countries on an international stage.

– Strategy and Adaptation: Paolini’s match strategy, focusing on exploiting Pegula’s weaknesses, reflects a deep understanding of the game, which is crucial at this level of competition.

– Historical Significance: This match adds another chapter to the storied rivalry between Italy and the United States in women’s tennis, emphasizing the evolving dynamics of international tennis competitions.

Concluding Reflection

As we celebrate Italy’s victory in the 2025 Billie Jean King Cup, it’s essential to recognize the broader implications of this win for women’s sports. Paolini’s triumph is not just about winning a match; it symbolizes the hard work, dedication, and passion that female athletes bring to the court every day. With each match, they inspire the next generation and continue to pave the way for equal recognition in sports.

The Billie Jean King Cup remains a vital platform for showcasing talent and fostering camaraderie among nations. As we look forward to future tournaments, one thing is certain: the excitement of women’s tennis is only just beginning.

Sources

– “Billie Jean King Cup 2025: Jasmine Paolini helps Italy defend title with 2-0 win against United States” – BBC

Feel free to share your thoughts on this thrilling match in the comments below! What did you think of Paolini’s performance, and how do you see the future of women’s tennis unfolding?