Tigers Excel in Exhibition Win Over Xavier, 114-53

The LSU Tigers showcased their dominance on Thursday night, defeating Xavier (N.O.) in their first exhibition game with a commanding score of 114-53. The No. 7 ranked Tigers had an impressive performance, with five players scoring in double figures, setting a strong tone for the upcoming season.

Leading the charge was junior Flau’Jae Johnson, who delivered a standout performance with a double-double, contributing 30 points and 10 rebounds. Johnson's efficiency was evident as she shot 13 of 19 from the field and 2 of 4 from beyond the arc. Senior forward Aneesah Morrow also shined, recording her first double-double of the season with 19 points and 10 rebounds, along with 5 steals and a team-high 4 assists.

“(Flau’Jae) was phenomenal, and what you’re seeing from her is comfort,” LSU head coach Kim Mulkey remarked. “She’s a leader, and it’s because she has all the experience and puts in the work. She and Morrow were the most comfortable out there tonight. I’m not surprised either one of them had double-doubles.”

Sophomore Mjracle Sheppard made an impressive debut, adding 12 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, and a game-high 6 steals off the bench, bringing infectious energy to the floor. Junior Jersey Wolfenbarger also contributed with 12 points, while freshman Jada Richard scored 14 points, hitting both of her three-point attempts.

“I feel like getting steals and playing defense is a team effort,” Sheppard noted. “If I wasn’t able to depend on my teammates and feed off of their energy, I would not be able to get those steals.”

Defensively, the Tigers were relentless, recording 18 steals and holding Xavier to just 34% shooting from the field. LSU dominated the boards, out-rebounding Xavier 46-28, and won the turnover battle decisively, forcing 33 turnovers while committing only 15.

The game opened with Johnson scoring the first points after a steal, setting the tone for the Tigers. LSU quickly established control, responding to an early Xavier lead with a series of baskets from Johnson, Morrow, and Wolfenbarger to take a 20-10 advantage. The first quarter ended with LSU leading 33-13 after shooting an impressive 66.7% from the field.

In the second quarter, LSU continued to build its lead, with Wolfenbarger and Kailyn Gilbert contributing key baskets. Johnson and Morrow maintained their strong connection, with several assists leading to easy layups. By halftime, the Tigers had surged ahead to a staggering 68-19 lead, dominating both the rebounding and shooting categories.

In the second half, while Xavier managed to outscore LSU in the third quarter, the Tigers maintained their momentum. Johnson opened the fourth quarter with an impressive layup, pushing her point total to 30 and sealing a well-rounded team victory.

LSU will look to build on this performance when they return to action next Wednesday for their final exhibition against LSU-Alexandria, leading into their season opener against Eastern Kentucky on November 4. The Tigers are poised for an exciting season ahead, fueled by their strong exhibition showing.