Instant Analysis: LSU basketball survives another close call against UT Arlington
It was a little too close for comfort once again, but LSU moved to 7-1 on the season to begin the Matt McMahon era in Baton Rouge with a 63-59 home win over the UT Arlington Mavericks.
Despite a poor shooting performance in the first half — in which the Tigers converted under 40% of their attempts from the field — they still led by seven at the break. But the Mavericks outscored LSU in the second half and led by four after the under-eight timeout.
However, LSU would follow that up with a 14-2 run down the stretch that proved to be enough to stave off the feisty mid-major opponent.
Forward KJ Williams led the way for LSU in this one, scoring 14 points. Adam Miller also scored in double figures for the Tigers with 11 points. Neither team shot particularly well, and UTA was under 40% for the game, though it was better in the second half.
However, LSU turned the ball over 13 times, which helped keep the Mavericks in the game. They may have won if they had taken advantage, but they only netted seven points from those mishaps.
It wasn’t the most inspiring win, but it will have to do for now. LSU has a week to work on its problems before facing a 7-2 Wake Forest team in Atlanta for Holiday Hoopsgiving on Dec. 10.
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