While LSU Basketball has reached its scholarship limit for the upcoming 2024-25 season, head coach Matt McMahon is showing no signs of slowing down in his efforts to bolster the team’s roster. Despite this constraint, McMahon has creatively added transfer center Noah Boyed as a walk-on, signaling a proactive approach to maximizing roster depth and talent.
The latest target in McMahon’s sights is Coleman Hawkins, a standout forward from Illinois who is considered one of the top players available in the transfer portal. According to a report by Joe Tipton from On3, Hawkins is scheduled to visit LSU on June 17th, highlighting the Tigers’ aggressive pursuit of top-tier talent.
Standing at 6’10”, Hawkins brings an impressive stat line from his time at Illinois, averaging 12.1 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game. His potential addition to LSU’s lineup could significantly elevate the team’s prospects, potentially transforming them into contenders within the competitive SEC under McMahon’s leadership.
While LSU has already made substantial additions in the guard and wing positions this offseason, addressing critical gaps in their frontcourt has remained a priority. Landing Hawkins would not only fill this void but also solidify LSU’s roster with a versatile and dynamic player capable of impacting both ends of the court.
Despite LSU Basketball currently being at its scholarship limit, acquiring Hawkins poses no immediate obstacle. Similar to their approach with Noah Boyed, the Tigers can extend Hawkins a walk-on opportunity while facilitating his enrollment through an NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deal to cover educational expenses—a strategy increasingly utilized to navigate NCAA regulations effectively.
Matt McMahon’s proactive roster management underscores his adeptness at leveraging NCAA rule changes to his team’s advantage. With the recent overhaul in NCAA regulations, traditional roster limits have become less restrictive, allowing programs like LSU to innovate and maximize their roster potential.
McMahon’s strategic maneuvering, particularly in light of the program’s challenges following the tenure of Will Wade, reflects a resilient and resourceful approach aimed at propelling LSU Basketball back into contention.
The competition for Hawkins’ services is formidable, with Kansas State emerging as a strong contender following Hawkins’ recent visit, and a potential return to Illinois remaining on the table. Despite these competitors, LSU’s aggressive pursuit and innovative recruiting tactics, coupled with the allure of playing in the SEC under McMahon’s guidance, position the Tigers favorably in the recruitment process.
Looking ahead, securing Coleman Hawkins would not only signify a major coup for LSU Basketball but also validate Matt McMahon’s vision for the program’s resurgence. As the landscape of college basketball continues to evolve with new rules and opportunities, McMahon’s ability to adapt and capitalize on these changes could prove pivotal in LSU’s quest for sustained success on the national stage.
In conclusion, while LSU Basketball faces constraints with its scholarship limit, the pursuit of Coleman Hawkins underscores the program’s commitment to enhancing its roster through innovative means. McMahon’s proactive approach and strategic recruitment efforts aim to position LSU as a formidable force within the SEC and beyond, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead filled with potential and promise.
