The LSU men’s basketball team showed off its 3-point game and a wealth of new talent en route to an 82-66 victory in an exhibition game against Arkansas Monticello.
The Tigers shot 50 percent from beyond the arc and managed to execute their fast-paced offense even in the absence of sophomore point guard Anthony Hickey.
Hickey and freshman forward Shane Hammink were both suspended for “not taking care of business,” according to LSU coach Johnny Jones.
In Hickey’s absence, the Tigers were fueled by freshman guard Corban Collins, who finished with 11 points and 5 assists.
“I was really impressed with Corban Collins,” Jones said. “I thought he did an excellent job of running our team.”
LSU’s offense was sparked by senior transfer guard Charles Carmouche, who finished with 19 points, along with freshman guard Malik Morgan, who tallied 18 coming off the bench.
Sophomore forward Johnny O’Bryant III recorded a double-double, scoring 10 points and snagging 10 boards for the Tigers.
Despite what the score suggests, the Tigers didn’t pull away from the Boll Weevils until junior guard Andre Stringer drained back-to-back 3-pointers late in the second half. Ball control was an issue for LSU, who turned the ball over 21 times.
“We can’t turn the ball over that many times and expect to win,” Jones said.
Though it was an exhibition game, Monday night’s contest marked Jones’ first game as LSU’s coach in the PMAC.
“[Tonight] was definitely filled with emotion, and I think I need this game as much as our guys did,” Jones said.
