The Matt McMahon era of LSU basketball tips off tomorrow night against UMKC. The former Murray State coach inherited a program with only two returning players from last year’s tournament team. McMahon and his staff put together an impressive recruiting class of both transfers and incoming freshmen in a short time in hopes of avoiding a full rebuild. McMahon still has yet to name the starters for tomorrow night but has emphasized the importance of guys earning their spot.
“The important thing is players have to understand, whatever the minutes are, whatever the role is on November 9th certainly doesn’t guarantee you that spot, whether it’s as a starter, or 30 minutes a game, or zero minutes a game.”
With players responsible for over 90% of the points scored for the Tigers last year gone, McMahon expects some growing pains for the young Tigers squad. He said he won’t be too hung up on mistakes in the season opener, but a lack of energy and effort is inexcusable as he tries to establish a new culture in Baton Rouge.
“There’ll be a lot of mistakes. I won’t be a harsh critic on the mistakes. I’m usually a harsh critic on a lack of effort or a lack of unselfishness, so I want to see us play and really play with great joy.”
Tigers fans will be excited to see one new face returning to the team this year. Illinois transfer Adam Miller joined the Tigers last year as a highly anticipated addition before suffering a season ending leg injury. The number 5 freshman scorer in the Big 10 will make his LSU debut in his first game in 19 months. MCMahon praised his talent and resilience throughout his journey back to the court.
“I’ve just been really impressed with how he’s handled that. I think it speaks to his mental toughness and his drive to become the best he can be. I think he’ll have a great year for us, so we’re counting on him to do so.”
Tip-off in the P-MAC is at 7:00
Comments