The LSU Tigers men’s basketball team defeated the Arkansas Razorbacks 78-74 on Tuesday night inside the PMAC. The win is much needed for LSU, as it gets them their first SEC win of the season.
HOW IT HAPPENED:
The game began with both teams struggling from the floor early on. LSU missed their first seven field goal attempts before getting on the board. Arkansas missed their first five shots before finally scoring. Six minutes into the game, just eight points had been scored with Arkansas leading 6-2.
When LSU did get it going, it was due to Derek Fountain getting to the free throw line. He made all six of his attempts to help tie the game at 16.
Arkansas made its biggest run of the half at that point. A 12-0 stretch with multiple outside shots helped the Razorbacks gain a 28-16 advantage.
After the slow start, both teams picked it up offensively. The Tigers were able to shoot the ball well through the rest of the half, and they slowly cut into the lead. A Cam Carter three at the end of the half cut the lead to two, as Arkansas led 36-34 at the half.
Carter continued to lead the way into the second half for LSU, keeping them close throughout the first portion of the second half. Once Arkansas got it to 50-43, the Tigers were able to make a run and bring it back to a one possession game.
Inside of 10 minutes to go, LSU finally retook the lead. All-in-all, it was a 15-2 run that got them to up five at 59-54.
The Tigers continued to maintain their lead by getting to the free throw line and making the most of their opportunities. Eventually, Boogie Fland tried to get the Razorbacks back into it. He scored seven straight points for Arkansas to get them within five at 70-65.
LSU’s defense allowed them to maintain a solid lead through the final minutes, but things got dicey in the final minute. After an Arkansas score, a turnover and foul allowed the Razorbacks to get it down to a one possession game at 76-74 with 28 seconds left. However, some clutch free throws and a big block allowed LSU to hold on for the 78-74 win.
BIG NUMBER: 13
LSU was +13 during a 15-2 run that gave them the lead in the second half. It was that stretch that propelled them to a much needed SEC win.
PLAYER OF THE GAME: Cam Carter
Carter led the way with 27 points in the win. He also contributed four rebounds and two assists, providing a huge spark.
UP NEXT: LSU will travel to College Station to face the Texas A&M Aggies on Saturday, January 18th at 7:30 PM. You can listen to the action on ESPN 103.7 Lafayette 104.1 Lake Charles.