After only surrendering 26 points in the second half versus Wofford in the Tigers’ 91-69 victory on Saturday, LSU coach Johnny Jones is hoping to carry that momentum versus Southern Miss on Tuesday.
The Tigers host the Golden Eagles tonight at 7 p.m. in the PMAC. Southern Miss edged out a 101-96 double overtime victory against Tougaloo College on Friday.
“We’re certainly looking forward to seeing if we can build on the success of the second half of the first game, both offensively and defensively,” Jones said.
One of the most notable differences between the two squads?
Size.
Sophomore forward Tim Rowe, who is listed as 6-foot-11, is the only player that stands above 6 feet and 7 inches for the Golden Eagles. LSU will look to its big men in the post, Duop Reath and Aaron Epps, to get the job done tonight.
“They will try to post [Rowe] up and force us to defend him on the block,” Jones said. “Duop will be tested, and we’re hopeful that Elbert Robinson can give us some positive minutes.”
Reath excelled in his LSU debut against Wofford. The 6-foot-10 forward from Perth, Australia filled the box score with 23 points, 14 rebounds, three blocks and three steals. Epps shot 3-4 from beyond the arc on his way to a game of 17 points and nine rebounds.
Reath’s performance earned him Southeastern Conference Player of the Week.
“Duop Reath had a phenomenal offseason for us,” Jones said. “For him to put himself in position in his first college game to be listed as player of the week in our conference speaks volumes.”
After allowing Wofford to shoot 7-for-13 from the 3-point line on Saturday in the first half, perimeter defense is an added emphasis for the Tigers. LSU will look to build its defensive performance in the second half, when it held Wofford to 1-of-9 shooting from three.
Seven players for Southern Miss scored in double figures in the Golden Eagles’ season opener, with Raheem Watts leading the way with 15 points and nine rebounds.
Jones also mentioned Southern Miss’ ability to play up-tempo.
“They’re a very fast team, they can drive the ball, and they’ve got guys who are spot-up shooters that can make plays as well,” Jones said. “They’re certainly a threat. It’s hard to get to 100 points, but they don’t seem to have any problem doing it.”