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LSU Roars Back: Redemption on the Horizon

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, January 14th 2026 at 13:44 GMT by Fox Sports
      Locales: Louisiana, Tennessee, Texas, UNITED STATES

LSU: Redemption and Roaring Back

Kim Mulkey's LSU Tigers are demonstrating a renewed vigor after a disappointing end to the 2025 season. The program, steeped in tradition and expectation, is aiming to reclaim its position among the nation's elite. While their early-season schedule hasn't presented the same level of challenge as some other SEC contenders, the Tigers have consistently delivered strong performances when faced with conference opponents. Their recent 92-38 victory over Missouri was a decisive statement of their intent. The team's offensive firepower, combined with Mulkey's renowned coaching prowess, makes them a formidable opponent. The pressure is undoubtedly on to maintain this momentum and prove that the early success isn't a fleeting moment, but a sign of a team built for a deep tournament run.

Texas: Consistency and Control

Texas has emerged as a consistent force in the SEC, showcasing a balanced and well-rounded game. The Longhorns are playing with a level of poise and control that suggests they've truly matured as a team. Their recent outings, including an 85-56 win over Oklahoma and a decisive 75-51 victory against Oklahoma State, highlight their ability to dominate across various aspects of the game--scoring, rebounding, and defense. The key to Texas's success appears to be a collective effort; they aren't reliant on a single superstar, but rather a cohesive unit working together towards a common goal. Coach Carolyn Ross has built a program predicated on discipline and strategic execution, and that is evident in their consistent performance.

Vanderbilt: The Underrated Commodores

Perhaps the biggest storyline of the season is the remarkable performance of Vanderbilt. The Commodores' surprising undefeated start has sent ripples throughout the SEC. Their success hasn't come through sheer offensive dominance, but rather through a staunch defense and a balanced scoring attack. The ability to lock down opponents and consistently put points on the board, even when struggling offensively, has allowed Vanderbilt to pull out crucial victories. Their 62-46 win over Georgia underscored their defensive grit and ability to weather storms. While many had predicted a rebuilding year for Vanderbilt, head coach Stephanie White has instilled a remarkable sense of confidence and resilience in her team.

The Wider SEC Landscape

The SEC is far from a three-team race, however. Several other programs are vying for contention and looking to disrupt the established order. Alabama is seeking to make a significant leap in the conference standings, while Auburn has consistently proven itself as a competitive team. Tennessee, a perennial powerhouse, is currently working to rediscover its championship form and claw its way back into the upper echelon. Ole Miss, South Carolina, Kentucky, Arkansas, and Florida all possess the talent and potential to challenge for a top spot in the conference. The competition promises to be fierce as these teams look to capitalize on any slip-ups from the leading trio.

What to Watch For

As the season progresses, several factors will determine the ultimate outcome of the SEC women's basketball race. The upcoming head-to-head matchups between LSU, Texas, and Vanderbilt will be critical in establishing a clear hierarchy. How these teams handle the pressure of maintaining their undefeated records and facing increasingly challenging opponents will also be a key indicator of their long-term viability. The SEC promises a thrilling and unpredictable season, and fans can expect a fierce battle for conference supremacy.