LSU’s early-season success has been largely attributed to the continuous development of its freshmen players, who have stepped up to fill key roles for the team. With a solid 10-2 record heading into their final nonconference game, the Tigers are looking to further nurture the growth of their young talent. As the team faces Mississippi Valley State (2-10) in Baton Rouge, La., on Sunday, it presents an opportunity to give these freshmen additional playing time, helping them refine their skills ahead of the upcoming Southeastern Conference (SEC) play.
The importance of player development, particularly for freshmen, cannot be overstated in the context of LSU’s season. While the Tigers have had strong performances across the roster, the growth of the younger players has been one of the most promising aspects of their season thus far. With such a strong start to the year, head coach Matt McMahon has emphasized the importance of creating depth on the roster and providing the freshmen with a platform to prove themselves. The Mississippi Valley State game is seen as an ideal opportunity to increase the freshmen’s exposure to live-game scenarios, allowing them to further develop their skills, gain confidence, and contribute to the team’s success.
For many of the incoming freshmen, the pace and physicality of college basketball can be an adjustment. Early in the season, they may struggle with adapting to the speed of the game or fitting into the system established by McMahon. However, as the season has progressed, LSU has been able to see positive strides in many of its young players. In games like Sunday’s match-up with Mississippi Valley State, McMahon can experiment with different lineups, giving his freshmen more meaningful minutes and expanding their roles within the offense and defense.
Playing against a team like Mississippi Valley State also provides a controlled environment in which freshmen can gain confidence while still competing at a high level. The Delta Devils’ record of 2-10 highlights their struggles this season, and while they will no doubt bring a level of competitiveness, it is an opportunity for LSU to maximize its rotation and see how well the freshmen are adjusting to collegiate competition.
In addition to gaining experience, this game provides a chance for LSU to fine-tune its overall team chemistry. Freshmen getting substantial minutes in games like this can build familiarity with their teammates and develop the on-court communication necessary for success in the tougher matchups that will come during SEC play. Whether it’s learning how to play off of the Tigers’ veterans or gaining a better understanding of how to execute McMahon’s tactical systems, the importance of this developmental period cannot be overlooked.
Another area where LSU’s freshmen have shown potential is on defense. For a team looking to build a strong identity on that side of the ball, having youthful energy and fresh legs can be a significant asset. The young players are often more willing to take risks on defense, which can lead to turnovers, fast breaks, and overall disruptive play. The Mississippi Valley State game will allow McMahon to continue to refine his team’s defensive schemes while giving his young players the opportunity to showcase their ability to impact the game on that side of the court.
Offensively, LSU’s freshmen have demonstrated their ability to score and make plays. The added playing time in this nonconference finale will allow these players to show even more of what they can do with the ball in their hands. Whether it’s shooting from the perimeter, driving to the basket, or making plays for teammates, LSU has several freshmen who have the potential to be major contributors in the team’s offensive schemes.
The game against Mississippi Valley State will also provide an opportunity for LSU to maintain its momentum heading into conference play. While the team is already in a strong position with a 10-2 record, the focus on player development remains a priority. Every game, particularly those against lower-ranked opponents, allows the coaching staff to get a clearer picture of where each player stands in terms of their individual progression. By continuing to give freshmen more minutes, LSU will also be building depth across the roster, which will be crucial when the tougher competition in the SEC begins.
As the team approaches the start of SEC play, LSU will need all hands on deck. The increased playing time for freshmen is more than just an investment in their individual growth; it’s an investment in the team’s future. By providing these players with a solid foundation now, LSU is setting itself up for success in the coming months, and ensuring that the program continues to evolve with fresh, young talent contributing to its goals. The Mississippi Valley State game, while a final nonconference tune-up, represents a critical moment in the development of the team’s freshmen, and for LSU’s coaching staff, it’s a chance to see just how far their young players have come.