Duke stuns LSU with 3-pointer at buzzer in Sweet 16

Ashlon Jackson's last-second shot sends Blue Devils to regional final against UCLA

Mar. 28, 2026 at 12:55pm

Ashlon Jackson's 3-pointer at the buzzer gave third-seeded Duke an 87-85 win over second-seeded LSU in a thrilling Sweet 16 matchup in the Sacramento Region. The win sends Duke to the regional final on Sunday, where they will face top-seeded UCLA, who cruised past Minnesota 80-56 in the earlier game.

Why it matters

The dramatic finish between Duke and LSU was a highlight of the women's NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 action, setting up an intriguing regional final matchup between the Blue Devils and the dominant Bruins. The game showcased the high level of talent and competitiveness in the women's game.

The details

Duke led for most of the night and by as many as 11 points in the fourth quarter, but LSU rallied multiple times to take the lead. The teams exchanged the lead six times in the third quarter before Duke went on an 11-0 run to go up 78-67. However, LSU fought back to tie the game at 85-85 in the final minute, setting the stage for Jackson's game-winning 3-pointer at the buzzer.

  • The game was played on Friday, March 28, 2026 in the Sweet 16 round of the women's NCAA Tournament.
  • Duke and LSU were playing in the Sacramento Region 2 nightcap game.
  • Duke will face UCLA in the regional final on Sunday, March 30, 2026.

The players

Ashlon Jackson

A Duke player who hit the game-winning 3-pointer at the buzzer to give the Blue Devils an 87-85 win over LSU.

Toby Fournier

A Duke player who scored 22 points in the win over LSU.

Taina Mai

A Duke player who also scored 22 points in the win over LSU.

MiLaysia Fulwiley

An LSU player who led all scorers with 28 points in the loss.

Mikaylah Williams

An LSU player who scored 22 points in the loss.

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What they’re saying

“That was an incredible game-winning shot by Ashlon Jackson. She really stepped up in a big moment for Duke.”

— Geno Auriemma, Head Coach, UConn Women's Basketball

What’s next

Duke will face top-seeded UCLA in the regional final on Sunday, March 30, 2026, with a trip to the Final Four on the line.

The takeaway

The thrilling finish between Duke and LSU showcased the high level of talent and competitiveness in the women's NCAA Tournament, setting up an intriguing regional final matchup between the Blue Devils and the dominant Bruins.