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Despite allowing another opponent to score double digit three pointers, the LSU Tigers improved their record to a perfect 3-0 after handling the pesky Memphis Tigers. This win marks the tenth straight victory for LSU in the PMAC, dating back to a 77-65 win over Texas A&M in January.
Skylar Mays proved to be a big factor early for the Tigers, as the junior guard led his team with 14 points on 10 shot attempts in the first half. Mays would finish with a team high 19 points, shooting 3-of-5 from the three point line. This line is particularly important, as the rest of the LSU offense would only shoot 2-of-13 from the arc.
The Memphis Tigers shot 7-of-18 from the arc in the first half, continually keeping tight what felt like another easy win for LSU. The Tigers also kept a full court press on any time LSU would come close to breaking a ten point lead, and even cut LSU down several times to take the lead. There were ten lead changes and seven ties in the game, but LSU held steady control, never panicking.
Kavell Bigby-Williams finally got his offensive breakout as an LSU Tiger, finishing second on the team with 14 points. The senior forward had 9 points total in the season before shooting a perfect 7-of-7 from the field tonight.
Naz Reid, Ja’vonte Smart, and Emmitt Williams all finished third for LSU with 11 points. Naz Reid found himself in foul trouble tonight, sitting out most of the final quarter of the game. Emmitt Williams also added 10 rebounds to his performance, marking his second career double-double in only three games.
What this kind of win means for LSU is still yet to be determined. This was only Memphis’ second game of the season, so it’s really hard to tell what kind of squad Penny Hardaway will find himself with come March. I do know that his Tigers gave ours a hell of a challenge with that constant pressing, and they answered with another impressive victory. Coach Wade will want to work on the turnovers and sloppy fouls, but I’d count it as another strong win that doesn’t really tell us a whole lot.
The Tigers will take on the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs Friday evening in what will be the final home game before the Tigers leave for the AdvoCare Invitational. The Bulldogs are 2-0 to start the season, and are currently taking on Division II Harding. That contest will tip off at 7pm on SEC Network+.