What's Happening?
LSU head coach Will Wade has successfully recruited Brice Dessert, a 6-foot-11 center from France, to join the Tigers for the 2026-27 season. Dessert, who previously played with Victor Wembanyama on French national teams, has agreed to play for LSU, as reported
by On3’s Shea Dixon. Last season, Dessert averaged 8.7 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks in 23 games with Anadolu Efes in the Turkish Basketbol Süper Ligi. His recruitment is part of Wade's strategy to build a competitive roster by incorporating international talent. Dessert's signing follows LSU's addition of other players through the transfer portal, including Abdi Bashir Jr. from Kansas State and Divine Ugochukwu from Michigan State.
Why It's Important?
The recruitment of Brice Dessert highlights LSU's strategic focus on international talent to enhance its basketball program. By bringing in players with professional experience overseas, LSU aims to strengthen its competitiveness in the SEC. This approach could set a precedent for other college programs seeking to diversify their rosters with international players. The move also underscores the evolving landscape of college basketball, where traditional recruitment methods are being supplemented by international scouting and transfer portal acquisitions. This strategy may face criticism from traditionalists but could offer LSU a competitive edge.
What's Next?
LSU will continue to integrate its new recruits into the team, preparing for the upcoming season. The success of this international recruitment strategy will be closely watched by other college programs. Additionally, the NCAA's stance on eligibility rules for players with professional experience will be a point of interest, as LSU's approach challenges conventional norms. The team's performance in the SEC will be a key indicator of the effectiveness of Wade's recruitment strategy.
