LSU secured a solid 80-71 win against Florida Gulf Coast on Sunday, led by Daimion Collins’ impressive 18-point performance and a standout double-double from freshman Corey Chest.
Collins demonstrated his skill by shooting 8 for 13 from the floor, including one three-pointer. The victory marks the fourth consecutive win for the Tigers, who are now 5-0 at home this season. In addition to his scoring, Collins contributed five rebounds and blocked three shots. Chest notably achieved career highs with 12 points and an equal number of rebounds, marking his first double-double.
The scoring was well-rounded for LSU, with Jordan Sears adding 13 points and three steals. Cam Carter also contributed 13 points, alongside five assists and three steals, while Dji Bailey chipped in with 11 points.
On the other side, Florida Gulf Coast’s Rahmir Barno was the leading scorer with 15 points, having an efficient shooting night with 7-for-10 from the field. Rory Stewart came off the bench to add 12 points and five rebounds, while both Dallion Johnson and Keeshawn Kellman registered 11 points each, with Kellman achieving his first double-double of the season by pulling down 10 rebounds.
Florida Gulf Coast started strong with jump shots from Kellman and Johnson, but LSU quickly responded. Sears and Bailey both sank three-pointers, allowing the Tigers to take the lead, which they maintained throughout the game. By halftime, LSU established a significant 42-27 lead, thanks to Bailey and Carter’s combined 22 points.
LSU continued to dominate, leading by as much as 21 points early in the second half. With 7:46 left on the clock, they held a 67-47 lead. It wasn’t until Darren Williams hit a three-pointer with just 26 seconds remaining that the Eagles managed to narrow the deficit to single digits.
Looking ahead, LSU is scheduled to face SMU on Saturday at the Compete 4 Cause Classic in Frisco, Texas. Meanwhile, Florida Gulf Coast will take a break before tackling a road game against UNC Wilmington on December 18.
