LSU Edges McNeese 63-60 in Wade’s Return

LSU opened Will Wade’s second stint as head coach with a 63-60 exhibition win over McNeese in Wade’s return to Lake Charles, where he led the Cowboys to consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances. The Tigers overcame a poor first-half showing at the free-throw line, converting 18 of 21 attempts after halftime and making seven of eight in the final 1:06. Divine Ugochukwu led LSU with 18 points, while Mo Dioubate added 16 and freshman Michael Ruzic posted 11 points and 16 rebounds. McNeese, now led by former Wade assistant Bill Armstrong, is seeking a fourth straight Southland Conference title and NCAA Tournament appearance; sophomore guard Larry Johnson returns after a record-setting freshman season.