In a moment that sent shockwaves through the Bon Secours Wellness Arena, LSU’s junior guard Last-Tear Poa suffered a frightening injury during the SEC women’s basketball tournament semifinal against Ole Miss. The incident, which saw Poa’s head make a hard impact with the court, led to an outpouring of concern and support as she was stretchered off with a concussion. Despite the emotional toll, the Tigers rallied to clinch a 75-67 victory and a spot in the SEC Tournament finals.
The game was intense, with LSU fighting to maintain their lead. The Tigers, already without injured freshman Mikaylah Williams, saw their depth tested when Poa, after taking a charge, hit her head against the floor. The arena fell silent as medical staff rushed to her aid, stabilizing her on a backboard and fitting her with a neck brace—a standard precaution for potential head and neck injuries.
LSU coach Kim Mulkey, who quickly joined Poa on the court, later relayed to her team that Poa had movement in her limbs, a small but significant reassurance in a tense moment. The team later announced on social media that Poa’s CT scan came back clean and she was expected to be released from the hospital.
The Tigers’ resolve was tested, but they responded with determination. Angel Reese, despite nursing a swollen ankle, led the charge with 21 points and 17 rebounds. Guard Flau’jae Johnson channeled her emotions into a powerful performance, dedicating a crucial three-pointer to Poa with a heartfelt ‘This is for Poa!’ as she returned to defense.
The incident has sparked a conversation about player safety, with Ole Miss coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin calling for a rule change to prevent such injuries. The current block/charge rule in women’s college basketball allows defenders to move in front of offensive players to draw a charge, which McPhee-McCuin argues can lead to dangerous situations like Poa’s.
LSU’s victory sets up a rematch with No. 1 South Carolina, a team they narrowly lost to earlier in the season. The Tigers, now 28-4, are aiming for their first SEC Tournament title since 2003. As they prepare for the championship game, their thoughts remain with Poa, whose toughness and spirit have undoubtedly inspired her teammates and fans alike.
In sports, as in life, adversity often brings out the best in us. For the LSU women’s basketball team, the challenge of overcoming Poa’s injury has united them in purpose and resolve. As they head into the finals, they carry not only their own hopes and dreams but also the fighting spirit of their fallen teammate.
The SEC Championship game promises to be a battle of wills, a testament to the strength and resilience of these remarkable athletes. As the Tigers take the court, they do so with the knowledge that they have already triumphed over adversity, and whatever the outcome, they have made their teammate, their coach, and their fans proud.
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