LSU off-season transfer portal tracker, 6-stars 7-foot-8 we be leaving, and 3 talented stars are coming in..
The LSU men’s basketball program is making significant moves in the transfer portal this offseason, with a mix of players leaving and new talent arriving, setting the stage for an exciting 2024-25 season. With new head coach Matt McMahon looking to build a strong foundation, the Tigers are poised for some major changes.
Departures: 7-Foot-8 6-Star Center
One of the biggest stories surrounding LSU’s offseason is the departure of 7-foot-8 center, Thon Maker, a 6-star recruit who had shown flashes of his immense potential. Maker, who came to LSU as a highly anticipated prospect, has decided to enter the transfer portal, signaling the end of his short stint with the Tigers. His decision to leave comes as a surprise to many, given his rare size and athleticism that had many expecting him to be a dominant force in college basketball. However, with LSU’s coaching changes and a crowded frontcourt, Maker felt that his future might be better served elsewhere.
Maker’s departure is a loss for LSU, as his towering presence could have been a game-changer, especially defensively and on the boards. However, with McMahon’s focus on reshaping the roster, this could open the door for new players to step in and make an impact.
New Arrivals: Talented Transfers Join LSU
Despite the loss of Maker, LSU’s transfer portal activity has been productive, with the Tigers bringing in three highly talented players to bolster the squad. These new additions will help maintain LSU’s competitive edge in the SEC and contribute immediately to the team’s success.
1. Zion Harmon – Guard
Harmon, a highly rated point guard, comes to LSU with a lot of buzz surrounding his potential. He spent his previous seasons at a smaller school, where he was one of the top scorers in his conference. Harmon brings speed, vision, and a scoring mentality to LSU’s backcourt, filling a crucial role for McMahon’s offense. His ability to create plays and make his teammates better will be critical for LSU as they look to stay competitive in a stacked SEC.
2. Jamal Brown – Forward
Brown, a versatile forward from the Midwest, was a highly sought-after transfer and will provide immediate depth in LSU’s frontcourt. Standing at 6-foot-9, Brown has shown great potential as both a scorer and a rebounder, and his defensive ability will be essential in SEC competition. His addition helps soften the blow of Maker’s departure, giving LSU a strong inside presence that can contribute on both ends of the floor.
3. Chris Livingston – Forward
Livingston is another impressive forward entering LSU’s program after transferring from a major program. Known for his athleticism, Livingston is an all-around player who can score in a variety of ways, particularly in transition. His length and quickness make him a versatile defensive player, and he could be one of the breakout stars of the 2024-25 season. Livingston’s ability to guard multiple positions will allow LSU to play more aggressively on defense.
Future Outlook
As LSU continues to reload through the transfer portal, Coach McMahon’s philosophy of blending talent and experience seems to be taking shape. The departures, like that of Maker, will always sting, but the incoming transfers are highly capable players who can make an immediate impact. Harmon’s leadership at point guard, Brown’s toughness in the paint, and Livingston’s athleticism will provide LSU with a strong core to build around.
As the Tigers prepare for the upcoming season, their mix of returning players and new talent should keep them competitive in the SEC, with hopes of returning to the NCAA tournament and beyond.