LSU Men’s Basketball was firing on all cylinders in their season opener against UL Monroe, capturing their first win by an impressive score of 95-60.
Recording a career-high 24 points, LSU junior forward Jalen Reed made his presence known in the Tigers’ new-look offensive scheme. Not only on efficient shooting (8/9 FG), but from his aggressiveness and willingness to draw fouls (going a perfect 8/8 from the free-throw line).
Additionally, many of the newcomers to this season’s roster contributed to this blowout victory.
In his debut in the purple and gold, Kansas State transfer guard Cam Carter showcased his skillset and, most importantly, the leadership he can bring to the table.
Finishing with 21 points and four made threes, Carter was a problem for the Warhawks in many different departments during his more than 30 minutes of playing time.
Ranging from his high-flying dunk to his lockdown perimeter defense, Carter found himself being involved, to a certain extent, in most of the plays, both offensively and defensively.
Flipping the script, one of the new faces to the construction of this roster provided a much-needed, refreshing spark off the bench.
Freshman guard Curtis Givens III seemed rather comfortable in his first collegiate experience.
Givens III finished with a sneaky 15 points on four three-pointers, while also securing six rebounds and two assists.
Richmond Transfer guard Dji Bailey had an electric debut for the Tigers, which started off with a posterizing dunk at the beginning of the first quarter.
One of those plays that Bailey should have immediately posted on his Instagram after the final buzzer.
Bailey finished with a respectable 13 points (6/7 FG) and six hard-fought rebounds.
Despite an explosive performance from ULM guard Jalen Bolden who finished with 25 points (11-22 FG), Head Coach Matt McMahon believes the team’s defensive success was due to increased ball pressure and intensity.
Starting the season on such a high note, the Tigers’ are hungry to build upon this momentum.
In their next matchup, LSU Men’s Basketball will face off against Alabama State on Sunday, Nov. 10, at 4 p.m. CST at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center.
