DEAL DONE: Aalyah del Rosario Commits to LSU with Contract Extension
BATON ROUGE, La. – In a major development for LSU women’s basketball, standout forward Aalyah del Rosario has made the definitive decision to stay with the Tigers, putting an end to swirling transfer rumors. Del Rosario, who was the third LSU player to enter the transfer portal during a turbulent offseason, has officially withdrawn her name and signed a contract extension to remain with the program. The announcement has brought a sense of relief and excitement to the LSU community and coaching staff, reaffirming her loyalty and the team’s vision for the future.
Del Rosario’s return is significant for multiple reasons. As a former five-star recruit and McDonald’s All-American, she was one of the most highly-touted prospects in her class. Her presence on the court was felt throughout the past season with her physicality, rebounding prowess, and growing offensive game. Standing at 6-foot-6, she adds size and skill in the paint that very few programs can match. Despite a freshman year that involved some learning curves and limited minutes, del Rosario showed flashes of elite potential, leaving fans and analysts alike eager to see her full breakout.
Her initial decision to enter the transfer portal came as a shock, particularly in the wake of LSU’s earlier high-profile departures and the ongoing uncertainty surrounding roster stability. The offseason had already seen significant changes, including coaching staff adjustments and whispers of locker room discord. But del Rosario’s recommitment signals a renewed sense of unity and purpose.
Sources close to the program indicate that del Rosario’s contract extension includes not just improved financial incentives under NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) provisions, but also a renewed commitment from head coach Kim Mulkey to her development and increased role in the team’s system. Mulkey reportedly played a hands-on role in persuading del Rosario to stay, emphasizing the pivotal role she will play as the team evolves in the coming seasons.
LSU fans have taken to social media to express their enthusiasm, praising del Rosario for her loyalty and applauding the coaching staff for retaining a cornerstone of the team’s future. With the departure of several veterans, the spotlight will now shine even brighter on del Rosario, who is expected to anchor LSU’s frontcourt and emerge as a leader both on and off the floor.
Her decision not only stabilizes the current roster but also sends a message to potential recruits and transfers that LSU remains a prime destination for elite talent. With the program still riding high off its 2023 national championship win, del Rosario’s extension helps maintain momentum and sets the stage for another deep postseason run.
In a college basketball landscape defined by rapid changes and player movement, securing a player like Aalyah del Rosario is a monumental win for LSU. It’s a testament to the power of trust, vision, and the potential of what lies ahead in Baton Rouge.