LSU Tigers' head coach Kim Mulkey faces a challenging task as she candidly discusses the future of the team without star players Angel Reese and Aneesah Morrow, who have both moved on to the WNBA. But will the team be able to fill the void left by these rebounding powerhouses?
In a recent media availability, Mulkey shed light on her strategy for the upcoming 2025-26 season. With the departure of Morrow, a former forward who now plays for the Connecticut Sun, and Reese, a Chicago Sky standout, the team's rebounding prowess is undoubtedly in question. Mulkey acknowledged this concern, stating that the team's success will rely on a collective effort rather than individual brilliance.
"The loss of Reese and Morrow is significant, especially when you consider the rebounds they brought in," Mulkey admitted. "It's a tall order to replace that production, and we might not have a single player capable of doing it alone. So, we're focusing on a team-wide approach." (8:02)
Mulkey's comments highlight a fascinating aspect of team dynamics: the power of collective effort. But here's where it gets controversial—is it realistic to expect a group of players to consistently fill the shoes of two standout individuals?
The LSU Tigers have a rich history with these players. Reese and Mulkey led the team to their first-ever national title in the 2023 NCAA tournament, and Morrow joined the following season, adding to the team's success. However, their championship reign was cut short by the Iowa Hawkeyes in the 2024 Elite Eight. Despite a strong showing, the Tigers fell short by seven points.
The following season, with Morrow as the centerpiece, the Tigers suffered another heartbreaking loss in the Elite Eight, this time to the UCLA Bruins, again by a seven-point margin. Morrow and Reese's impact on the team's success cannot be overstated, as evidenced by their high draft picks in the WNBA.
Reese dominated the boards for two consecutive seasons, leading the team in rebounding with impressive averages. Morrow followed suit in the most recent season, showcasing her talent and further emphasizing the void the team now faces.
As the Tigers prepare for the new season, the question remains: Can they truly make up for the loss of these rebounding giants through collective effort alone? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
