The LSU Tigers women’s basketball team is making significant moves in the recruitment landscape, focusing on top talent for the 2027 class. Under the leadership of head coach Kim Mulkey, the program has already secured the No. 1 recruiting class for 2025 and is now setting its sights on elite prospects to enhance its roster further.
In recent weeks, the coaching staff has welcomed multiple high-profile recruits to Baton Rouge for unofficial visits, aiming to solidify relationships and showcase the program’s potential. Among the most notable targets are three standout players who have drawn considerable attention.
Caroline Bradley: A Key Target
One of the standout prospects is Caroline Bradley, a five-star forward from Oak Grove, Louisiana. Ranked as the No. 3 overall prospect in the 2027 Recruiting Cycle, Bradley has been a priority for LSU over the last three years. With her height of 6 feet 5 inches, she is regarded as the top prospect in Louisiana and has garnered offers from prestigious programs, including the South Carolina Gamecocks.
Bradley has made a significant impact on her high school team, averaging 20.6 points, 14.5 rebounds, 2.6 blocks, and 2.5 assists per game last season, which helped lead Oak Grove to a 21-4 record. Despite falling short in the state championship game, her performance has kept her on the radar of elite college programs. LSU has prioritized maintaining contact with Bradley, having attended numerous games and arranging several visits to Baton Rouge.
Kaleena Smith: The Top-Ranked Point Guard
Another highly coveted recruit is Kaleena Smith, a five-star point guard from Ontario Christian in California. Recently visiting Baton Rouge during a high-stakes matchup against South Carolina, Smith is ranked as the No. 1 overall prospect in the 2027 Recruiting Cycle.
Standing at 5 feet 6 inches, Smith’s skill set has attracted attention from numerous top-tier programs, including LSU, UCONN, and Tennessee. Her ability to control the pace of the game and make crucial plays has been highlighted by analysts. As noted by 247Sports, “Smith’s poise and presence are at a different level than her peers,” underscoring her potential impact at the collegiate level.
Banks: Rising Star in Demand
Lastly, Banks, another top prospect ranked No. 4 in the 2027 Recruiting Cycle, is gaining momentum in her recruitment journey. The 5-foot-9 guard has received offers from over 20 schools, including LSU, South Carolina, and UCLA.
During the 2024-25 season, Banks averaged 21.7 points, 4.8 assists, 4.1 rebounds, and 3.1 steals per game, showcasing her versatility on the court. As she enters her junior year, Banks continues to elevate her game, prompting LSU to intensify its recruitment efforts after a recent visit to Baton Rouge.
As Kim Mulkey and her staff work diligently to attract these elite athletes, the LSU Tigers position themselves for continued success in women’s basketball. The coming months will be crucial as these prospects weigh their options and consider their future in collegiate athletics.
