LSU basketball finally snaps 14-game losing streak against red-hot Vanderbilt
For the first time in nearly two months, LSU’s basketball found itself on the winning side of a basketball game on Wednesday night.
Facing a Vanderbilt team that entered on a five-game winning streak that included wins against Tennessee and Auburn, the Tigers controlled the game nearly the entire way en route to an 84-77 win. It was LSU’s first since Dec. 28 in the SEC opener against Arkansas, and it snapped a 14-game losing streak that has largely defined coach Matt McMahon’s first season.
The Tigers (13-15, 2-13 SEC) had another trademark poor offensive start, missing their first five shots and falling behind 11-5 in the early minutes. But LSU started heating up and was particularly effective from three, hitting 6 of 13 attempts in the first half from behind the arc.
Between the three-point shots falling and a Vanderbilt field-goal drought that lasted more than five minutes, LSU took control in the half. It led by as much as 10 and ultimately took a seven-point lead to the locker room.
The Commodores (15-13, 8-7 SEC) began the half on an 8-2 run that largely erased that lead. But they only retook it briefly, and LSU controlled the game in the second half. It made nine threes in this game, five of which came from KJ Williams, who finished with a season-high 35 points and 10 rebounds.
The Tigers took advantage of opportunities at the line, scoring 21 points from the charity stripe, nine of which came from Adam Miller, who shot 90% on free throws while scoring 18 points.
LSU’s postseason hopes remain dead in the water, but the team will look to string together some wins and end the season with momentum. Next up is another winnable contest on the road against Ole Miss on Saturday, and the Tigers will look to turn their losing streak into a winning streak.
More Basketball!
LSU Basketball vs. Vanderbilt: Broadcast info, betting odds, injury report for Wednesday's penultimate home game
LSU coach Matt McMahon reflects on loss to South Carolina, lessons learned in frustrating debut season
PHOTOS: Tigers still searching for answers after 82-73 loss to South Carolina
Contact/Follow us @LSUTigersWire on Twitter, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Louisiana State news, notes, and opinions.
Follow Tyler to continue the conversation on Twitter: @TylerNettuno
