After a thunderous reception at home, the LSU Tigers began their title defense against the Rice Owls.

However, they had to dig down deep as an upset-defying 24th double-double from Angel Reese (10 points and 20 rebounds) secured a hard-fought 70-60 first round victory.

The regular starters for Kim Mulkey– Angel Reese, Aneesah Morrow, Hailey Van Lith, Mikaylah Williams and Flau’jae Johnson–got the ball rolling pretty early in the game.

The Lady Tigers were on a 7-0 run before the visitors could blink.

The Owls quickly responded by scoring the next five points.

Soon both the teams were on even grounds as the Rice Owls were able to put up a counterattack.

Still, the defending champions were able to capitalize on the offensive rebounds and create some separation.

At this time, LSU’s No.13 Last-Tear Poa enters the court amidst a standing ovation from the PMAC. LSU end the first quarter at 12-6.

LSU’s defensive struggle continued in the next quarter as Rice quickly got on level terms.

Following this, some fierce offensive play from Morrow and Johnson got the lead back for LSU.

Moreover, Morrow became the first player to register a double-digit score.

At the same time, the All-American forward Angel Reese improved on the team’s defense as she kept on grabbing the rebounds.

Regardless, the visitors kept troubling Kim Mulkey’s crew and ended the opening half trailing by just 3 points.