The LSU men’s basketball team opened its 2025–26 season with a dominant 96–60 win over Tarleton State on Wednesday night at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center.

Coming into the season with a completely revamped roster, Tiger fans were eager to see how the new squad would perform.

Head Coach Matt McMahon said “For having so many guys, it’s impressive to see how connected they are here early in the season.” highlighting how the chemistry within the new squad led them to success.

Notable standouts were Freshman guard Dedan Thomas Jr. who led the Tigers with 16 points and eight assists in his collegiate debut. Followed by Sophomore Forward Robert Miller III with 10 points including a major slam dunk in the 1st half.

The Tigers recorded a total of 21 assists, with 10 of the 13 players who saw action contributing to the scoring. With six players recorded in the double figures.

Kade Douglas from Tarleston State led the team in scoring with 19 points. The Texans finished out with a total of 32.3 percent from the field.

The win gave fans a glimpse of what’s to expect of LSU’s new lineup, which features a mix of freshmen, transfers, and only two returning players.

The Tigers are set to take on the New Orleans Privateers on Monday, Nov. 10, 2025, in the Pete Maravich Assembly Center, looking to maintain their winning record and continue momentum early on.