It’s been a season of scrutiny for the LSU women’s basketball team.

First, the NCAA Division I reigning champions lost their season opener to the Colorado Buffaloes. Then, their most famous player, Angel Reese, mysteriously didn’t play for four games in November, igniting much speculation among fans and media. But under Kim Mulkey’s leadership, they’ve come back strong, earning an 18-2 record and a No. 9 ranking.

Now comes their biggest test versus undefeated, number-one-ranked South Carolina on Thursday night.

So today, ESPN Feature Writer Katie Barnes previews one of the most-anticipated games of the season and considers whether the Tigers’ rocky start is truly in the rear-view mirror.

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The Enduring Mystery of Kim Mulkey, Angel Reese, and LSU