LSU Women’s Basketball Reloads with Elite Talent and Championship Expectations

The LSU women’s basketball team is back. The Tigers begin their new campaign as the No. 5 ranked team in the nation. The season starts with an exhibition game Thursday night in the PMAC. Head coach Kim Mulkey has assembled another formidable roster.

Assistant coach Gary Redus played a pivotal role in building this squad. He recently discussed the team’s outlook and recruiting successes. According to The Bengal Tiger podcast, the program’s expectations remain sky-high.

Gary Redus Details Roster Construction and Standout Players

Recruiting is the lifeblood of any elite program. Assistant coach Gary Redus provided insight into the process. He highlighted the recruitment of standout Zakiyah Johnson.

Johnson was identified as a phenom in seventh and eighth grade. She initially trained with the wing players during summer workouts. Her versatility ultimately made her an asset in the post. Redus compared her playing style to former stars Nina Davis and Aneesah Morrow.

Her comfort in tight spaces is a significant advantage. She can contort her body and use quickness effectively near the rim. This makes her a unique and difficult matchup for opponents.

Leadership Emerges as Key Theme for New Season

The team boasts immense scoring talent. Coach Redus emphasized that leadership will be the true differentiator. He specifically pointed to veterans Flau’jae Johnson and Mikaylah Williams.

Their primary task is to guide the entire team. They must ensure everyone performs at the required level daily. This responsibility extends far beyond simply putting points on the board.

The Tigers have many players who can score. What they need is consistent, vocal leadership from experienced players. The team’s championship aspirations will depend heavily on this development. Johnson and Williams are expected to make that critical leap.

This LSU women’s basketball team blends elite new talent with veteran guidance. The combination creates a potent formula for another deep postseason run. All eyes are on Baton Rouge as the Tigers chase another title.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is the new assistant coach for LSU women’s basketball?

Gary Redus is a key assistant on Kim Mulkey’s staff. He is heavily involved in roster construction and player development. His insights were recently featured on The Bengal Tiger podcast.

What did Gary Redus say about Zakiyah Johnson?

Redus described Johnson as a phenom identified in middle school. He praised her versatility, noting she excelled as both a wing and a post player during summer workouts. Her quickness and body control in the paint make her a unique asset.

What is the main challenge for Flau’jae Johnson and Mikaylah Williams?

The main challenge is evolving into team leaders. Coach Redus stated they must do more than just score. They are tasked with leading the team and ensuring everyone meets daily expectations.

How does the team’s ranking affect expectations?

Starting the season ranked No. 5 nationally creates immediate pressure. The program is expected to compete for a championship. The talented roster is built to meet those high expectations.

Why is leadership so crucial for this year’s team?

The team has abundant scoring talent from multiple players. Coach Redus identified leadership as the key ingredient they need to develop. Championship teams require veterans who can guide and control the team on and off the court.