Matt McMahon reveals what he wants LSU basketball brand to be

After a highly successful run as the head coach at Murray State, Matt McMahon has been rewarded with a bigger job – taking over as the head man of the LSU men’s basketball program in the SEC. Inheriting a team that’s had success over the years but has dealt with many issues involving former coach Will Wade, McMahon’s hands are full – but he is a proven winner who hopes to continue to be successful in Baton Rouge.

Making the move to LSU after compiling a 154-67 overall record with three NCAA Tournament appearances in seven seasons at Murray State, McMahon takes over a Tigers’ team that went 22-12 overall this season and lost in the first round of the NCAA Tournament to Iowa State. Wade was fired by LSU before the start of March Madness after the program received its Notice of Allegations from the NCAA, which included multiple violations by the former coach.

Coming into Baton Rouge with plans to have LSU consistently competing in the SEC, McMahon revealed what he wants the Tigers’ brand to be under his direction during his introductory press conference – saying that it’s going to be an all-positive environment.

“Joy,” McMahon said to open his answer. “Joy. Every kid who gets here – every young man who gets here – has worked their entire life to have the opportunity to play at LSU, to put on that jersey, to play in Pete Maravich’s house, to watch past Shaq’s statue going into the arena. I believe I was 12 years old when I saw Chris Jackson play in Knoxville and score – I believe it was 49.

“This is an unbelievable place. Why wouldn’t you enjoy it? We’re going to work. You have to have that balance. We’re going to have high energy people. I want players that want to be the best that they can be – players that are going to be all about winning. We’re going to have a lot of fun along the way in doing so, and I think it starts with building relationships.”

McMahon takes over at LSU after a stellar final season at Murray State, which was highlighted by the Racers going 31-3 overall with a perfect 18-0 mark in Ohio Valley Conference play. McMahon’s squad earned a No. 7 seed for the NCAA Tournament and lost to No. 15 seeded Saint Peter’s in the second round.