LSU Tigers Volleyball Star Shines Bright, Earns Prestigious Gold Medal With Women’s U.S. U23 National Team in Dominant Fashion

In a summer filled with pride, perseverance, and powerful play, LSU volleyball star Anita Anwusi etched her name into history, earning a gold medal with the United States Women’s U23 National Team. The achievement is not only a milestone in her career but also a glowing reflection of the talent and grit that the LSU Tigers program has nurtured and elevated.

Competing at the 2025 NORCECA Women’s U23 Continental Championship held in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, the U.S. squad faced stiff competition from across the Americas. But through it all, Anwusi stood tall—both literally and figuratively—emerging as a crucial piece in the gold medal-winning campaign.

The Americans dominated the tournament from start to finish, sweeping all of their matches and defeating the Dominican Republic in a hard-fought final. Anwusi, the 6-foot-2 middle blocker known for her commanding net presence and explosive quick attacks, delivered a stellar performance in every match. Her powerful blocking, clutch kills, and unmatched energy made her one of the tournament’s most impactful players.

For LSU head coach Tonya Johnson, the gold medal is a glowing testament to what the Tigers are building in Baton Rouge. “We’re incredibly proud of Anita,” Johnson said. “She’s put in the work every single day, and now she’s being recognized on the international stage. It’s huge for her and for LSU volleyball.”

Anwusi’s summer journey began in Anaheim, California, where she joined the U.S. U23 team for a rigorous training camp. The team, made up of top collegiate talent from across the country, quickly bonded under head coach Heather Olmstead (BYU) and found a rhythm that translated beautifully on the international court.

“It was intense but really special,” Anwusi shared in a post-tournament interview. “Representing the U.S. and having LSU across my chest in spirit—it’s something I’ll never forget. This medal means everything.”

The journey to gold was no walk in the park. In their opening match against Costa Rica, Anwusi tallied six kills, four blocks, and two aces—setting the tone for what would become a dominant tournament run. The U.S. swept through the preliminary round, defeating Costa Rica, Cuba, and Puerto Rico without dropping a set.

In the semifinals, Team USA faced host country Honduras. The home crowd brought energy and volume, but Anwusi and her teammates were unfazed. With poise and precision, they silenced the crowd in straight sets. Anwusi recorded a match-high six blocks and added timely offense, earning Player of the Match honors for her performance.

The gold medal showdown against the Dominican Republic was the ultimate test. The Dominicans, known for their athleticism and international pedigree, pushed Team USA to the brink. But thanks to clutch play from Anwusi in the fourth and decisive set—including two solo blocks and a perfectly timed slide kill—the U.S. pulled away for a 3-1 victory.

“She was everywhere,” Olmstead said. “Anita played like a veteran. Her presence at the net gave us an edge, and her leadership was just as impactful. She’s a special player.”

Anwusi’s gold medal marks a high point in what has already been a stellar career at LSU. As a senior leader heading into the 2025 collegiate season, she brings momentum, experience, and now international prestige back to Baton Rouge. Last season, she was named Second Team All-SEC and led the Tigers in total blocks and hitting percentage.

Her rise hasn’t come without challenges. As a freshman, she battled injuries and inconsistency. But over the years, Anwusi blossomed into a vocal leader and cornerstone of LSU’s defense. Her summer success is validation of years of hard work and the culture Coach Johnson has cultivated since taking over the program.

“This is just the beginning,” Johnson said. “Anita’s success shows what’s possible for LSU volleyball. We want our players competing on the biggest stages, and now they see that it’s attainable.”

The U.S. U23 team’s victory also holds broader significance. It marks the first time since 2018 that the program has captured gold at the NORCECA level. The team’s performance is expected to have a ripple effect across collegiate programs nationwide, inspiring younger players and reinforcing the depth of American talent at the college level.

For Anwusi, it’s not just about medals—it’s about growth. “Being part of this team taught me so much about resilience, trust, and playing for something bigger than yourself,” she said. “I’m bringing all of that back to LSU.”

Back in Baton Rouge, her teammates and coaches watched from afar, cheering her on during every block and every big swing. The LSU volleyball program proudly celebrated her achievement on social media, calling it a “historic moment” for the Tigers.

Now, with preseason training kicking off, Anwusi returns as a conquering hero—and a player with a clear vision for her final collegiate season. Her goals are bold: win the SEC, host in the NCAA Tournament, and lead LSU deeper than ever before in the postseason.

“This summer made me hungry,” she said. “I’ve seen what it takes to win at the highest level, and I want that for us. LSU volleyball is ready to make noise.”

Her return instantly boosts the Tigers’ national profile. With several key players back and a talented freshman class, LSU is viewed as a rising threat in the SEC and a potential sleeper pick in national rankings. And with Anwusi anchoring the middle, the team has a legitimate star who can change the game on any given night.

Anwusi’s international success could also open doors beyond college. U.S. Volleyball has taken notice of her growth, and the possibility of future national team call-ups is very real. Professional scouts, too, have begun to circle, intrigued by her blend of size, speed, and leadership.

“She’s got the tools to play at the next level,” said one scout who attended the NORCECA tournament. “Anita’s presence at the net is elite, and her instincts are as good as any young player I’ve seen.”

But for now, her focus remains squarely on LSU and helping the Tigers continue their upward climb. With the new season just weeks away, anticipation is building inside the Pete Maravich Assembly Center. Season ticket sales have seen a spike, and fans are eager to see their gold medalist back in action.

“It’s all love in Baton Rouge,” Anwusi said with a smile. “I can’t wait to get back on the court with my girls and chase something special.”

As the gold medal glints in her trophy case, it tells a story not just of triumph—but of a player who dared to dream big, worked relentlessly, and now stands as a beacon of inspiration for the next generation of LSU Tigers.