UCLA’s formidable center, Lauren Betts, is proving to be a powerhouse on the court with consecutive games featuring more than 30 points and double-digit rebounds. UCLA is set for a rematch against LSU, who previously ended the Bruins’ run in last year’s Sweet 16 of the women’s NCAA Tournament. This showdown will take place on Sunday in the Elite Eight round.
UCLA, holding a 33-2 record and recognized as the top seed, secured their spot in the regional finals by defeating Mississippi 76-62 on Friday night. This marks UCLA’s return to the regional finals, their first since 2018. Betts was instrumental in the victory, delivering 31 points with remarkable precision, shooting 15-of-16, and contributing 10 rebounds and three blocks. Her performance is reminiscent of her previous game against Richmond, where she scored 30 points and 14 rebounds. This achievement makes Betts one of only three players in the past quarter-century to have multiple games with at least 30 points and 10 rebounds in the NCAA tournament.
LSU’s head coach, Kim Mulkey, praised Betts’ talent: “She is so talented. Watching her growth from high school to now is truly impressive. Her height plays a significant role, and it’s something that isn’t easily matched.” The third-seeded Tigers (31-4), fresh off an 80-73 victory over N.C. State, were propelled by Aneesah Morrow, who notched 30 points and 19 rebounds, marking her 30th double-double of the season. Morrow is now one of only two female NCAA players to achieve over 100 double-doubles, and the sole player nationwide with more than 600 points and 450 rebounds this season.
UCLA’s coach, Cori Close, acknowledged the challenge Morrow poses: “Her dominance on offense and skill around the rim or in high post attacks are formidable. Our task will be to disrupt that rhythm.” LSU aims for their third consecutive Elite Eight, having won the national title under Mulkey’s guidance two years ago. Mulkey has a decorated career, leading Baylor to three national titles.
Betts commented on the upcoming match, recognizing LSU’s aggressive style and Morrow’s physical play: “Facing Morrow, who is determined to rebound aggressively, means we need to enter with a strong mindset and attack from the start.” In the previous Sweet 16 face-off last year, LSU triumphed 78-69 with notable performances from Flau’jae Johnson and Angel Reese, though Reese has since advanced to the WNBA. After their victory, LSU labeled themselves “the good villains” before eventually falling to Iowa in the Elite Eight.
Since last season, Betts has made significant strides. Coach Close remarked, “Betts blossomed remarkably last year, but she’s now fully prepared to maintain her top form. Her exceptional skills enhance the performance of those around her.” Meanwhile, Flau’jae Johnson of LSU had a challenging game, scoring only three points before exiting due to an eye injury after a collision. However, Coach Mulkey confirmed that Johnson is ready to play: “I feel good,” Johnson assured, after concerns following the injury subsided.