BATON ROUGE, LA — April 12, 2025 — Excitement rippled through the Pete Maravich Assembly Center on Saturday evening as LSU Tigers standout forward Aalyah Del Rosario took center stage and delivered a statement that ignited cheers across the arena: “I’m not going anywhere.”
With that bold declaration, Del Rosario officially confirmed she will return to Baton Rouge for her junior season in 2025-26, a decision that surprised analysts and delighted the LSU faithful. The announcement comes amid heavy speculation that the 6’6” rising star might declare for the WNBA Draft, where she was projected as a potential first-round pick.
Instead, Del Rosario chose loyalty, unfinished business, and a shot at another national championship with the Tigers.
“I believe in this team. I believe in what we’re building,” Del Rosario told reporters following the dramatic on-court announcement. “We’ve had our highs and lows, but I’m coming back because I know we’re not done yet. I want to leave a legacy — not just as a player, but as a leader who finished what she started.”
Del Rosario averaged 16.4 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game this past season, quickly becoming the anchor of LSU’s frontcourt. Her presence in the paint, her defensive tenacity, and her ever-evolving offensive game made her one of the most dominant players in the SEC and across the nation.
Her return is not only a major boost for LSU’s title hopes next season, but it also sends a message to the rest of the women’s college basketball world — LSU is coming.
Kim Mulkey Reacts: “We’re Building Something Special”
LSU head coach Kim Mulkey, who has guided the program to a national title and multiple deep tournament runs, stood beside Del Rosario as she made her announcement. The usually fiery and passionate Mulkey wore a proud smile.
“We are thrilled to have Aalyah back,” Mulkey said. “She’s grown so much, not just as a player but as a person. Her commitment to this program means everything. She’s not just returning — she’s returning with a purpose. And I promise you, we are going to make her final season one to remember.”
Mulkey didn’t mince words when asked about her expectations for Del Rosario in 2025-26. “We’re going to build this team around her. She’s our centerpiece. She’s got the drive, the heart, the talent — and now, she’s got one more year to show the world what LSU basketball is all about.”
Impact on the Program and Beyond
Del Rosario’s decision is already rippling across social media and the basketball community. Fans flooded X (formerly Twitter) with reactions ranging from surprise to jubilation, using hashtags like #OneMoreYear and #BayouBeast.
WNBA scouts had Del Rosario high on their watchlists, but her choice to return highlights a growing trend of top college stars choosing to stay for multiple years. With NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) opportunities allowing athletes to earn substantial income while in school, many are balancing pro aspirations with college legacies.
“This is a different era of college basketball,” said ESPN analyst Rebecca Lobo. “Aalyah Del Rosario is a perfect example of a player who understands her value both on and off the court. And LSU is the big winner here.”
Del Rosario’s return also solidifies LSU as a top contender heading into the next season. The Tigers are expected to reload with a mix of returning stars and top-ranked recruits. With Del Rosario anchoring the post, LSU will likely start the 2025-26 season inside the top five.
Legacy in the Making
Aalyah Del Rosario’s journey at LSU has already been filled with memorable moments — from her double-double performances in key SEC matchups to her leadership in the locker room. But her decision to return adds a new chapter to her growing legacy.
“This isn’t just about basketball,” Del Rosario said. “It’s about growth. It’s about fighting for something bigger than yourself. I want to inspire young girls to chase their dreams and know they can do it all.”
With the crowd still buzzing, and her teammates cheering from the sidelines, Aalyah Del Rosario walked off the court with one hand raised in the air — a symbol of both confidence and commitment. Baton Rouge just gained another season of greatness, and the college basketball world just got a whole lot more interesting.
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