LSU Lands Florida Star Laila Reynolds for 2026 Season

Coach Kim Mulkey continues strategic rebuild of Tigers roster after key departures.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 4:07am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the chaotic energy and overlapping movements of a women's basketball game, with sharp planes of deep purple, teal, and gold creating a visually striking and conceptual representation of the strategic rebuilding of the LSU Tigers roster.Mulkey's strategic roster overhaul aims to reshape the LSU Tigers into a dynamic, competitive women's basketball program.Baton Rouge Today

LSU women's basketball coach Kim Mulkey is orchestrating a strategic makeover for her team in 2026, following the loss of star player Flau'jae Johnson to the WNBA and four other players to the transfer portal. Mulkey's leadership is proving pivotal in rebuilding the Tigers, with a focus on attracting top talent and reshaping the team's dynamics, including the addition of 6'1" junior guard/forward Laila Reynolds from SEC rival Florida.

Why it matters

Mulkey's ability to convince key players to join LSU showcases her strategic prowess and influence in the college basketball world. Her approach to rebuilding the Tigers is a testament to her leadership skills and her commitment to building a competitive and dynamic team.

The details

Despite Reynolds' impressive performance at Florida, where she averaged 12.1 points, 3.4 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.7 steals last year, she may initially take a bench role at LSU, indicating a potential shift in her playing time. Mulkey is also closing in on securing former five-star recruit Jada Williams from Iowa State, a 5'6" rising senior who averaged 15.3 points per game last year, further strengthening LSU's backcourt.

  • In 2026, LSU lost star player Flau'jae Johnson to the WNBA and four other players to the transfer portal.
  • Laila Reynolds, a 6'1" junior guard/forward, is joining LSU from SEC rival Florida for the 2026 season.

The players

Kim Mulkey

The head coach of the LSU women's basketball team, known for her strategic prowess and ability to attract top talent.

Laila Reynolds

A 6'1" junior guard/forward who is transferring from Florida to LSU for the 2026 season, where she averaged 12.1 points, 3.4 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.7 steals last year.

Jada Williams

A 5'6" rising senior and former five-star recruit who is expected to join LSU from Iowa State, where she averaged 15.3 points per game last year.

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What’s next

As the offseason progresses, LSU fans can anticipate further changes and improvements as Mulkey continues to shape the program's future.

The takeaway

Kim Mulkey's strategic approach to rebuilding the LSU women's basketball team, including the addition of high-profile transfers like Laila Reynolds and Jada Williams, demonstrates her leadership skills and commitment to building a competitive and dynamic program.