The University of Connecticut’s women’s basketball team is slated to meet Louisiana State University on December 20, 2024, in a highly anticipated matchup at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena. The game forms part of the espnW Invitational doubleheader and will be televised live on ESPN, drawing attention from fans across the nation.
This contest marks the first meeting between the two programs since Kim Mulkey assumed the head‑coaching role at LSU in 2021, a tenure that followed her predecessor’s 2021 Elite Eight victory. UConn holds a commanding 8‑1 edge in the all‑time series, a statistic that underscores the historic nature of the rivalry.
Coaches’ Duel Adds a New Narrative
Geno Auriemma, UConn’s longtime architect of success, carries a 5‑4 record against Mulkey, including a 2‑0 advantage in NCAA Tournament meetings. Mulkey’s only prior triumph over the Huskies came in the 2007 Elite Eight, a 73‑50 defeat that remains a benchmark for LSU.
The last regular‑season encounter dates back to November 20, 2016, when UConn secured a 76‑53 win, while the 2007 Elite Eight clash stands as LSU’s sole victory over the Huskies in that era. Both teams have combined for two of the past four national championships, heightening the stakes of the upcoming showdown.
Beyond the headline game, the Nashville event will feature additional contests, including a matchup between Virginia and Kentucky, expanding the tournament’s appeal. ESPN’s broadcast will bring the action to a national audience, further cementing the network’s role in women’s college basketball.
UConn’s connection to Nashville is deep‑rooted; the arena hosted the Huskies’ ninth national title in 2014, a moment that still resonates with players and alumni. The 2026‑27 schedule also includes nine official games, an exhibition against Syracuse, and home contests versus Texas and Louisville, promising a packed calendar for the program.