LSU Tigers Defeat McNeese in Exhibition Game, 63-60

In a game marked by strong free-throw performance, LSU made 18 of 21 attempts in the first half. Divine Ugochukwu contributed a crucial three-pointer during a late 10-4 run that helped the Tigers take control of the game.

After trailing 56-53, Ugochukwu tied the score at 56 with 2:40 remaining. Michael Ruzic then put LSU ahead for good with two free throws at the 1:06 mark. Donovan Dent added two more free throws with 25 seconds left, extending LSU's lead to 60-56, which they maintained by hitting free throws down the stretch.

Ugochukwu was the game's top scorer with 18 points, shooting 6 of 10 from the field, including two three-pointers. Dioubate also had a strong performance, shooting 6 of 11 for his 16 points. Dent scored 12 points, while Ruzic, who received medical clearance to play earlier that day, recorded 11 points and 16 rebounds.

Both teams struggled offensively; LSU finished the game shooting 34.6% (18 of 52), while McNeese shot 35.5% (22 of 62). McNeese's Larry Johnson, the 2026 Southland Conference freshman of the year, was the only player for the Cowboys to score in double figures, totaling 22 points.

LSU out-rebounded McNeese 41-40 and held a slight edge in points in the paint at 26-20, along with a 12-9 advantage in second-chance points. LSU committed 10 turnovers.

The Tigers will host their next exhibition game against UCF on Wednesday at 7 p.m. at the Maravich Center, with free admission. The game will also be broadcast on the LSU Sports Radio Network and streamed on SECN+.