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LSU Tigers to Face SMU Mustangs in New Orleans for Compete 4 Cause Classic

NEW ORLEANS, LA – The LSU Tigers men’s basketball team (8-1) is set to battle the SMU Mustangs (9-1) this Saturday at 7:30 p.m. CT at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans as part of the Compete 4 Cause Classic. This event aims to promote community impact and engagement across New Orleans, and it provides student-athletes to use their platforms to inspire underrepresented youth in New Orleans.

Head Coach Matt McMahon emphasized the importance of the game, not only as a crucial SEC vs. ACC matchup offering valuable experience in an NBA arena but also as an opportunity for his players to make a positive impact in the local community.

“The opportunity to play in an NBA arena is great for our players,” McMahon stated during a press conference on Thursday. He also highlighted a community service component where players will interact with youth organizations in New Orleans.

Coming off a challenging loss against Texas Tech, the Tigers face a formidable opponent in SMU, currently ranked No. 2 in the ACC and boasting a high-powered offense. McMahon acknowledged the Mustangs’ strength, calling them a “legitimate top 25 team” and highlighting their offensive explosiveness. He stressed the need for improved transition defense and three-point defense.

“I think you look at the explosiveness of SMU… one of the fastest playing teams in the country. Our transition defense will have to be really good and we have to improve our ability to defend the three-point shot.”

The Tigers, who struggled offensively in their previous game, are looking to rebound. McMahon believes his team has the right character and a sense of urgency to improve.

“We’ve got high character people that are all about the right things .. that’s disappointed in our performance on Sunday (against Texas Tech).. and is very committed to getting better as a team and knows the challenge that SMU presents with their balance both inside, outside, offensively, defensively.”

Fans can catch the action Saturday night as LSU looks to prove it can compete against a top-tier opponent in the Compete 4 Cause Classic.

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