1996-97
Many people thought Louisiana Tech was going to have to rebuild after losing four starters to graduation, but Leon Barmore simply reloaded - and kept winning.
Tech started the season strong, winning the inaugural Preseason Women’s National Invitation Tournament, defeating Tennessee 66-64 in the title game. Starting one freshman, three sophomores and a junior college transfer, Louisiana Tech proceeded to post a 31-4 record and win their fifth-straight regular season Sun Belt Conference title. After claiming a second consecutive SBC Tournament title, Tech entered the NCAA Tournament and promptly defeated St. Peter ’s and Auburn before falling to Florida in the regional semifinals.
Barmore won his 400th career contest with a 71-54 victory over North Carolina State in the Preseason WNIT.
Youth and inexperience. Excuses.