SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Ashlon Jackson’s three-point shot at the buzzer propelled third-ranked Duke to an 87-85 triumph against second-seeded LSU in the Sweet 16 round of the women’s NCAA tournament on Friday evening.
Jackson’s attempt from the wing, positioned directly before Duke’s sideline, spun around the hoop before finally sinking, thereby igniting a fervent celebration among the Blue Devils. She received the pass on the wing and, after eluding LSU defender Flau’Jae Johnson, launched the shot.
Duke (27-8) is set to confront the top-seeded UCLA in the Elite Eight stage of the Sacramento 2 Region on Sunday. The Bruins triumphed over Minnesota in the alternative regional semifinal.
LSU (29-6) had overcome an 11-point shortfall to seize the lead following two successful foul shots by Mikaylah Williams, with merely 9.2 seconds remaining.
Taina Mair failed to convert a three-point attempt from the corner with 5 seconds left. The ball then exited the playing area after being deflected off an LSU player with 2.6 seconds remaining, thus paving the way for the dramatic conclusion.
Mair and Toby Fournier each tallied 22 points, leading Duke’s offensive output. Jackson concluded the game with 21 points.
Duke established an 11-point advantage at the commencement of the fourth quarter before LSU narrowed the margin to 84-83 with 19 seconds remaining. Jackson drew a foul but failed on both subsequent free throws. The ball then exited play, and following a review, possession was awarded to LSU.
Johnson penetrated the key and couldn’t convert an attempt, but Williams secured the rebound and drew a foul. She converted both foul shots, momentarily putting the Tigers in front prior to Jackson’s decisive play.
MiLaysia Fulwiley tallied 28 points for LSU, and Williams contributed an additional 22. Johnson concluded with 13 points, marking the end of her distinguished collegiate career.
Duke exacted revenge for an early-season defeat against the Tigers in the ACC-SEC interconference challenge. Since that setback, which placed the Blue Devils’ record at 3-6, they have emerged victorious in 24 of their last 26 contests. This impressive run catapulted them to secure both the ACC regular season championship and tournament crown.
LSU had been almost unyielding in their offensive capabilities, amassing over 100 points in a collegiate-record 16 matches this season. The Tigers’ attack performed adequately, but they were unable to contain the Blue Devils.
Duke commenced with an energetic pace, connecting on 55% of their field goals in the initial quarter to establish a 24-19 advantage. The Blue Devils widened their lead to 47-40 by halftime. LSU faced difficulties with their shooting, with the exception of Fulwiley, who amassed 18 points with a 7-of-9 shooting performance.
LSU mounted a comeback to equalize the score at the outset of the fourth quarter before experiencing a scoring drought from the field. Coach Kim Mulkey, adorned in a purple sequined ensemble, endeavored to ignite her squad, but the Tigers were unable to respond.
Forthcoming Matchup
Duke is scheduled to confront UCLA in the Elite Eight, a return bout from a November game where the Bruins secured a comfortable victory.