Texas Tech at LSU: 2020-21 storylines for Big 12/SEC Challenge matchup

LUBBOCK, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 25: Guard Nimari Burnett #25 of the Texas Tech Red Raiders handles the ball during the first half of the college basketball game against the Northwestern State Demons at United Supermarkets Arena on November 25, 2020 in Lubbock, Texas. (Photo by John E. Moore III/Getty Images) /

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Oklahoma State Cowboys Cade Cunningham Texas Tech Red Raiders Kevin McCullar Michael C. Johnson-USA TODAY Sports /

Catch the ball moving toward the hoop

Coach Beard and the Red Raiders are more than willing to have this BIG/SEC matchup be one of few possessions. At 68.5, the Red Raiders are owners of the third lowest Pace of Play in the Big 12. One of the reasons for the lack of possessions is the amount of time they allow each possession to be for their opponents.

Since Coach Beard seldom has his defenders get two feet outside the three-point line, it is extremely easy to move the ball against them. The moving just takes place beyond the arc where Coach Beard wants it. In order for the Fighting Tigers to get the Pace of Play closer to their 73.5 average (a number the Red Raiders have exceeded in just one game), the Fighting Tigers are going to have to pass the ball in order to get closer to the basket.

This is where the plot thickens since LSU places thirteenth in SEC play in assists with an average of fewer than eleven per game, history does not indicate that the Fightin Tigers are going to get quick or easy baskets from their half-court offense. If LSU gets lulled into passing the ball along the perimeter it will result in Thomas taking a shot from the three-point line as opposed to the free-throw line.

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