LSU basketball made a statement on Saturday with an 81-80 win over No. 14 Gonzaga. After a second-half comeback, guard Donovan Dent sent the Bulldogs packing with a go-ahead three-pointer with 1.5 seconds left.
Will Wade's Tigers are now 4-0 as momentum builds around the program in year one of Wade's second stint at LSU. This was LSU's first real test of 2026. LSU went on the road to face one of college basketball's top programs and came away with a win.
Dent delivered in the clutch, but was LSU's best player throughout the game. Dent totaled 23 points and 10 assists while going 9/20 from the field. Gonzaga was led by Braden Huff, who totaled 18 points and 13 rebounds.
Gonzaga led by 13 points in the second half, but Wade's squad wasn't fazed.
Most of LSU's roster is new to Baton Rouge, but they're experienced players, and the veteran aspects of this team were evident when LSU went down. The Tigers hung in there.
LSU's roster was clouded with questions all offseason. Wade took an unconventional roster-building approach. LSU didn't rely on high school recruiting or the transfer portal. Wade focused on international players with professional experience and college veterans needing waivers or legal help to be eligible. LSU didn't even announce its roster until the season was just weeks away.
With this win, Wade shows proof of concept. LSU will likely be ranked in the next AP Poll, and the Tigers have a real chance of making the NCAA Tournament.
This article originally appeared on LSU Wire: LSU basketball makes statement with thrilling win over Gonzaga
