The LSU Tigers are gearing up for their Southeastern Conference (SEC) opener against Texas A&M on March 23, 2024, at Reed Arena in College Station, Texas. With a strong non-conference record of 12-1, the team is ready to face the challenges that SEC play presents. Key players, including transfer guard Mike Nwoko, who has been vocal about the upcoming competition, are confident in their preparation and mindset.
Nwoko, who averages 16.1 points per game with a remarkable shooting percentage of 71.2%, emphasized the importance of mental readiness for the SEC. “I’m very confident heading into SEC play for sure,” he stated. He is one of the few players with prior SEC experience, having played with Mississippi State last season. His insights have resonated with a team that features only two players who participated in SEC games last year, excluding Jalen Reed, who is sidelined for the season due to an Achilles injury.
Teammate Dedan Thomas echoed Nwoko’s sentiments, expressing that the team still has much to prove. He noted, “We have a lot to prove still… so like he said, ‘the real deal is about to start.’” Thomas has also made a significant impact, averaging 16.2 points and leading the SEC with 7.1 assists per game while maintaining only 1.8 turnovers.
As LSU enters SEC play, they face a formidable opponent in Texas A&M, which currently holds a record of 10-3. The Aggies, coached by Bucky McMillan, have played against several high-caliber teams in their non-conference schedule, including losses to Oklahoma State, Central Florida, and SMU. They are known for their explosive offense, averaging over 96 points per game, and their aggressive defensive strategy, which has resulted in Texas A&M being tied for 15th in the nation for forced turnovers per game at 16.38.
Coach Matt McMahon acknowledged the challenge presented by the Aggies, stating, “This Texas A&M team is really, really good.” He highlighted their ability to create scoring opportunities from defensive turnovers, a tactic that has proven effective under McMillan’s leadership. LSU will need to prioritize ball security against Texas A&M’s relentless pressure and full-court defensive strategies.
While LSU is not focused on forcing turnovers, they will rely on Thomas to navigate the challenges posed by the Aggies’ defense. The Tigers plan to utilize a combination of pick-and-roll plays involving Thomas and their big men, alongside post-up opportunities for Nwoko. They will also look to maximize scoring from the perimeter, particularly from Max Mackinnon.
In addition to the contributions from transfers, McMahon emphasized the importance of the SEC experience within the team. He expressed confidence in players like Nwoko and Reed, who can provide leadership during these pivotal games. “I think this is where you rely on a Mike Nwoko who started every game last year in SEC play,” McMahon noted.
As the team shifts its focus to the SEC, McMahon highlighted the progress they have made over the past few months. With a “laser focus” on securing a road win, LSU is prepared for the challenges that lie ahead in the SEC. The outcome of this matchup could set the tone for the rest of their conference season, as the Tigers aim to make a return to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since the 2021-22 season.
