The LSU men’s basketball team powered its way to a 80-45 exhibition victory over Xavier of New Orleans.
The Tigers were paced offensively by senior guard Andre Stringer, who drained six 3-pointers on the night on his way to 22 points.
LSU started the game slowly, only scoring 15 points through the first seven minutes.
“It was good to get under the lights for the first time to shake some of the jitters out,” said LSU coach Johnny Jones. “It took us a little while, but we straightened it out.”
But LSU’s heralded freshmen class stole the show in the rout.
Freshman guard Tim Quarterman proved to be a force on the defensive end with two assists and several other passes to set up open shots. He finished the night with a six to one assist to turnover ratio.
Quarterman proved to be the quintessential point guard, only taking four shots on the night and taking every opportunity to set up his teammates.
“Tonight was only a sneak peek of what I have to offer,” Quarterman said. “I just tried to set up my teammates and get the three point shooters going.”
On 29 field goals LSU picked up 24 assists, highlighting the ball movement on the night.
Joining Quarterman in the defensive dominance was freshman forward Jordan Mickey. Finishing the night with eight blocks in 23 minutes, Mickey was the most impressive freshman of the night.
Mickey also proved he could get it done on the offensive end, shooting 60 percent from the floor for 12 points — good for second the team.
“It felt great out there being out there with someone other than my teammates,” Mickey said.
Mickey finished the night with a box score stuffing line of 12 points, six rebounds, four assists and a steal.
Jones said the new roles help Mickey on defense, as they encourage challenging players at the basket rather than taking charges.
The highest-rated of the freshmen — forward Jarell Martin — had a rocky start to the night, but heated up after a pair of free throws.
“[The free throws] did a lot for my confidence,” Martin said. “I just felt more comfortable on the court.” 
Jones said when things didn’t go well on the offensive end for Martin he stepped up on the defensive end to keep himself in the game.
Martin finished the night with 11 points in 27 minutes.
The Tigers continue their season at University of Massachusetts on Nov. 12.

Gallery • 10 Photos

Grace Steinhauser

LSU sophomore forward Shane Hammink (11) dribbles the ball past Xavier players Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2013, during the Tigers' 80-45 victory at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center