LSU Basketball and head coach Matt McMahon have welcomed back former LSU player Jalen Courtney-Williams to the coaching staff. Courtney-Williams, who played 61 games for LSU before transferring to Morehead State, brings a wealth of coaching experience from his stints at McNeese State, Mississippi State, and most recently, Creighton.
At Creighton, Courtney-Williams played a pivotal role in the team’s success, guiding them to the NCAA Tournament in each of his three years as an assistant, including a recent Sweet 16 appearance. McMahon expressed his excitement about the hiring, praising Courtney-Williams’ expertise in building relationships, recruiting top talent, and teaching the game.
While the move may not generate immediate excitement, it signifies a strategic decision by the LSU basketball program. By adding someone intimately familiar with the program and deeply passionate about LSU, the team gains a valuable asset both on the court and in recruiting efforts.
One area where Courtney-Williams’ expertise could prove crucial is in developing the center position, especially with the departure of Will Baker. His track record in nurturing big men, as evidenced by his work with Sha’Markus Kennedy at McNeese State, suggests that he could address this pressing need for the team.
Overall, Courtney-Williams’ return underscores LSU Basketball’s commitment to building a strong and competitive program. With the right coaching and development, the team has the potential to become one of the most formidable rosters in recent memory, offering fans plenty of reasons for optimism.