The LSU men's basketball team pulled off a nail-biting 106-99 victory in double overtime against the Ole Miss Rebels on Wednesday night. This win was crucial for the Tigers, who are navigating the season without their starting point guard, Dedan Thomas Jr. Senior guard Max Mackinnon stepped up in a big way, delivering a career-high 34 points and sinking four three-pointers.
This matchup in Oxford was as close to a must-win as it gets for head coach Matt McMahon. Ole Miss came in with a conference record of 3-11, just slightly above LSU in the SEC standings. A loss could have intensified the scrutiny on McMahon, but he rallied the team to a spirited and much-needed victory.
In the aftermath, EJ Kuiper, President and CEO of FMOL Health, publicly backed McMahon. Kuiper took to social media to commend McMahon's efforts, stating, "LSU MBB beats Ole Miss in Oxford!!
Matt McMahon is a good coach. Took over a program that was in shambles and had to deal with key injuries all season long.
He deserves another chance."
Kuiper's endorsement is significant. As LSU’s official championship health partner and a member of the committee that helped secure Lane Kiffin as the Tiger football program's head coach, his opinion carries weight. With LSU having a tough season, there has been buzz about a possible coaching change, but Kuiper's support might influence the decision to keep McMahon on board.
McMahon's contract extends through the 2027-28 season, with a current buyout of around $8 million. Last month, LSU athletic director Verge Ausberry mentioned to the Baton Rouge Advocate that making the NCAA Tournament was crucial, or else a "reevaluation" would be necessary. This victory over Ole Miss certainly helps McMahon's case, but the coming weeks will be pivotal in determining his future with the Tigers.