TIGERS FALL

Derek Fountain’s 26 points not enough to will LSU past Alabama

BY PETER RAUTERKUS @peter_rauterkus

Just three weeks ago, LSU had its first matchup of the season with Alabama, leaving Coleman Coliseum at its lowest point of the season, losing 106-66.

That was the fourth consecutive loss of a still ongoing losing streak where seemingly nothing has gone right for the Tigers. Three weeks later, LSU welcomed Alabama to Baton Rouge, and while the losing streak continued, there were positives that could be taken from LSU’s performance.

The loss against Alabama extended LSU’s losing streak to 10, but like the last few losses, the effort was once again there. After giving up 106 in the first matchup, the Tigers held the Crimson Tide to just 79 points. LSU also outrebounded Alabama 40-35, compared to being outrebounded 5238 in Tuscaloosa.

Another clear difference came in LSU’s aggressiveness. LSU made a point to get to the basket and draw fouls, shooting 31 free throws and making 24 of them. Derek Fountain led the way in that effort, scoring 26 points, 12 of those coming from the free throw line.

“I just come into the game, I tell myself ‘go play hard’ and whatever happens, happens,” Fountain said after the game.

Outside of just the scoring,

SOFTBALL

Fountain was active on both ends of the court, grabbing seven rebounds and tallying four blocks. Twenty-six points was enough for a career high for Fountain in a performance that almost willed LSU to a win.

“I thought Derek Fountain was terrific,” said head coach Matt McMahon. “He embodies everything I want to build this program on relentless effort, energy, he’s all about the team. He’s really stepped forward into a leadership role.”

Alongside Fountain, Cam Hayes had one of his better games this season as well. He finished with 15 points and eight rebounds, knocking down three three-pointers. Despite his scoring, though, LSU had another inefficient day from the field, shooting just 31% and 26% from three-point range.