Kim Mulkey faced a major offseason overhaul with the LSU Women’s Basketball team after their Elite Eight run came to an end and star forward Aneesah Morrow declared for the WNBA. Key players Sa’Myah Smith, Last-Tear Poa, and Aalyah Del Rosario also hit the transfer portal, leaving big gaps in the lineup.
Despite the departures, Mulkey retained two foundational players: Flau’Jae Johnson and Mikaylah Williams. With most of the roster wiped clean, Mulkey had the perfect opportunity to do what she does best—reload through the transfer portal.
Here’s a projected look at LSU’s likely starting five for the upcoming season:
Point Guard – MiLaysia Fulwiley
MiLaysia Fulwiley, a dynamic transfer from South Carolina, is expected to take the reins at point guard. Although she didn’t start for the Gamecocks, Fulwiley was electric off the bench, averaging 11.7 points per game. Known for her flashy handles and elite court vision, she’s poised to shine with more playing time, especially while feeding the ball to stars like Johnson and Williams.
Shooting Guard – Mikaylah Williams
After a standout season, Mikaylah Williams returns as one of the best pure scorers in the nation. With Morrow gone, Williams steps into an even larger offensive role as the team’s No. 2 option. Expect a breakout year from the rising star as she builds on her already impressive resume.
Small Forward – Flau’Jae Johnson
Getting Flau’Jae Johnson back was a huge win for Mulkey. Despite opportunities to turn pro or secure a major NIL deal elsewhere, Johnson stayed loyal to LSU. She will continue to be the engine of the Tigers’ offense while anchoring their defense with her all-around play.
Power Forward – Amiya Joyner
While not the flashiest name, Amiya Joyner may prove to be LSU’s most impactful offseason addition. The East Carolina transfer averaged 15 points and 9.2 rebounds per game, bringing physicality and rebounding that the Tigers need after losing Morrow. Joyner’s presence inside will be critical.
Center – Kate Koval
Kate Koval, a former 5-star recruit, arrives from Notre Dame and fills a long-standing need for a true center in Mulkey’s system. With her size and skill set, Koval is perfectly positioned to thrive under Mulkey’s coaching, which has historically elevated post players.
Can LSU’s Freshmen Crack the Starting Five?
With the No. 1 recruiting class in the nation, Mulkey may face tough decisions. Grace Knox, a versatile 6’3″ forward, is the most likely freshman to make an immediate impact. If Fulwiley is shifted into a combo guard role, look out for talented rookies Bella Hines, Divine Bourrage, or ZaKiyah Johnson to challenge for a starting spot.
With elite returners, top-tier transfers, and a powerhouse freshman class, LSU is once again built to contend. The question isn’t whether they’ll be great—it’s how far can Mulkey take them this time?
