Triumphant Tears: Aneesah Morrow of LSU Receives the Prestigious Pericious Maxwell Award for Excellence

In the world of collegiate basketball, few stories resonate as deeply as that of Aneesah Morrow, the LSU Tigers’ powerhouse forward whose journey from a promising freshman to a national sensation culminated in her receiving the esteemed Pericious Maxwell Award for Excellence. This accolade, presented in February 2025, not only recognized her exceptional talent on the court but also honored her resilience, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the sport.

A Journey of Dedication and Perseverance

Aneesah Morrow’s basketball odyssey began at DePaul University, where she quickly made a name for herself as a dominant force in the Big East. In her freshman season, she led the nation in rebounding with an average of 13.8 rebounds per game, a feat she would repeat in her senior year at LSU. Her tenure at DePaul was marked by numerous accolades, including setting a Big East single-game record with 27 rebounds and scoring a career-high 41 points in a single game .

In May 2023, Morrow made the pivotal decision to transfer to LSU, seeking new challenges and opportunities. Her arrival in Baton Rouge was met with high expectations, and she did not disappoint. Stepping into the void left by Angel Reese, Morrow embraced her role as the team’s cornerstone, leading by example both on and off the court.

Dominance on the Court

During the 2024–25 season, Morrow’s performance was nothing short of spectacular. Averaging 18.7 points, 13.5 rebounds, and 2.5 steals per game, she led the nation in rebounds and double-doubles, recording 30 throughout the season . Her ability to dominate both ends of the floor showcased her versatility and basketball IQ. Whether it was securing crucial rebounds, executing timely steals, or scoring in critical moments, Morrow’s presence was felt in every game.

Her remarkable consistency was highlighted by several standout performances, including two 20/20 games—one with 21 points and 20 rebounds against Charleston Southern and another with 23 points and 21 rebounds at Tennessee . These achievements not only solidified her status as one of the premier players in the country but also contributed significantly to LSU’s success throughout the season.

The Pericious Maxwell Award for Excellence

The Pericious Maxwell Award, named in honor of the legendary basketball figure, is bestowed upon the nation’s top power forward. In February 2025, Morrow’s exceptional season earned her this prestigious honor, marking a historic moment for LSU women’s basketball. As the announcement was made, Morrow was visibly overcome with emotion, tears streaming down her face as she embraced her coaches and teammates. Her reaction was a testament to the hard work, sacrifices, and unwavering support that had propelled her to this pinnacle of success .

In a heartfelt post-ceremony interview, Morrow expressed her gratitude and disbelief: “It’s truly overwhelming… All the hard work, the early mornings, the late nights – it all feels worth it now. This is a dream come true, and I’m so grateful for everyone who’s been a part of my journey.”

A Legacy of Excellence

Beyond the statistics and accolades, Morrow’s legacy is defined by her leadership, work ethic, and the inspiration she provided to her teammates and aspiring athletes. Her journey from a promising freshman to a national champion and award recipient serves as a beacon of perseverance and determination.

As she declared for the 2025 WNBA Draft in April 2025, Morrow’s collegiate career came to a close. However, her impact on LSU and the sport of women’s basketball will be felt for years to come. Her story is a powerful reminder that with passion, dedication, and resilience, greatness is achievable.

Aneesah Morrow’s receipt of the Pericious Maxwell Award for Excellence is a celebration of her exceptional talent, hard work, and the indelible mark she left on LSU women’s basketball. Her journey from DePaul to LSU, culminating in this prestigious honor, is a testament to her growth as a player and a person. As she embarks on the next chapter of her basketball career, the legacy of her achievements will continue to inspire and uplift the next generation of athletes.