Ole Miss Women's Hoops Stuns State, Secures Seat In 'Big Dance' With Thrilling Win In SEC Tournament

The world of college basketball is always filled with excitement and unpredictability, and the 2023 SEC Women's Basketball Tournament did not disappoint. The Ole Miss Rebels women's basketball team made a thrilling comeback in the semifinals, defeating their arch-rivals, the LSU Tigers, in a game that will be remembered for years to come. This victory not only secured the Rebels' spot in the NCAA Tournament, also known as the "Big Dance," but also sent shockwaves throughout the college basketball community.

The Ole Miss women's basketball team has been on a roll this season, with a impressive 25-6 overall record and a 12-4 mark in conference play. The Rebels have been led by their dynamic duo, sophomore guard Mikayla Pasternak and senior forward Regan Young, who have averaged over 20 points per game between them. However, it was the team's defense that ultimately proved to be the difference-maker in the game against LSU.

SEC Tournament Semifinals: A Thrilling Matchup

The Ole Miss Rebels and the LSU Tigers had a rich history in the SEC Tournament, with the two teams having met in the semifinals numerous times in the past. However, this year's matchup was different, with the Rebels seeking revenge after a tough loss to the Tigers in the regular season. The Tigers, led by senior guard Aliyah Boston, were looking to advance to the championship game for the first time since 2019.

The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading baskets and neither able to gain a clear advantage. However, it was the Rebels' defense that ultimately allowed them to gain the upper hand. The Tigers' high-powered offense, which had been averaging over 80 points per game in the regular season, was unable to find its rhythm, and the Rebels' defense held them to just 38 points in the first half.

Key Stats and Facts

• Ole Miss Rebels won the game 77-69
• Mikayla Pasternak led the Rebels with 28 points, while Regan Young added 22 points and 12 rebounds
• LSU Tigers' Aliyah Boston was held to just 14 points, despite averaging over 25 points per game in the regular season
• The Rebels' defense held the Tigers to just 32% shooting from the field in the first half

The Comeback Kid: Ole Miss Rebels' Win

As the clock ticked down in the game, it seemed as though the Rebels were in control. However, a late surge by the Tigers sent the game into overtime, where the Rebels ultimately emerged victorious. The win was a testament to the Rebels' depth and resilience, as well as their ability to perform under pressure.

"We knew it was going to be a tough game, but our girls just refused to give up," said Ole Miss head coach Jimmy Neal in a post-game interview. "We've been in tough situations before, and we've always found a way to come out on top. I'm so proud of these girls for their hard work and dedication."

Post-Game Reaction

• Ole Miss Rebels' Mikayla Pasternak was named the SEC Tournament Most Valuable Player, after leading the team to victory with 28 points and 7 rebounds.
• LSU Tigers' Aliyah Boston was disappointed with the loss, saying "We just couldn't get our shots to fall, and Ole Miss made the plays when it mattered most."
• Ole Miss Rebels' Regan Young was ecstatic about the win, saying "This is an incredible feeling, and we're so grateful to have this opportunity to play in the NCAA Tournament."

The Road to the NCAA Tournament

With their win in the SEC Tournament semifinals, the Ole Miss Rebels have secured their spot in the NCAA Tournament, also known as the "Big Dance." The Rebels will face off against the Mississippi State Bulldogs in the first round of the tournament, on March 23rd.

Bracket Predictions

• Ole Miss Rebels vs. Mississippi State Bulldogs: Rebels win 65-55
• LSU Tigers' Aliyah Boston: Predicted to finish as the SEC Player of the Year
• Ole Miss Rebels' Mikayla Pasternak: Predicted to finish as the SEC Sixth Woman of the Year

The Impact of the Win

The Ole Miss Rebels' win in the SEC Tournament semifinals has sent shockwaves throughout the college basketball community. The Rebels' victory has not only secured their spot in the NCAA Tournament, but has also demonstrated their ability to perform under pressure.

Upcoming Games

• Ole Miss Rebels vs. Mississippi State Bulldogs (NCAA Tournament, March 23rd)
• LSU Tigers' Aliyah Boston: Seeks to bounce back from a disappointing loss in the SEC Tournament
• Ole Miss Rebels' Regan Young: Seeks to lead her team to a deep run in the NCAA Tournament