LSU
Back in late November, Mack had an 18-point, 9-rebound effort at LSU in a Wofford loss, so he’s already gotten a good look at what Matt McMahon and these Tigers are all about. Things will certainly look different next season in Baton Rouge, especially with star forward KJ Williams out of eligibility. This does leave Mack with plenty of chances to play significant minutes and a major role for the Tigers.
Not only are the Tigers losing their top scorer and rebounder, but they run a system that Mack is comfortable with. Last year’s LSU team depended heavily on a slew of guards behind Williams, and Mack would be a major addition in the frontcourt. The one negative for Mack heading to Baton Rouge would be that this team hasn’t exactly been a postseason contender in recent years. Would his addition help lead them over the top?
South Carolina
This is the choice that’s closest to Mack’s hometown, but how strongly will he desire to finish his collegiate career playing closer to home? He’d get the unique experience of playing in the SEC and getting to have his family at games, but would life be better at a South Carolina program that’s been in just one NCAA Tournament in the past twelve years?
Forwards GG Jackson (NBA Draft) and Hayden Brown (eligibility) will both be gone, and Lamont Paris will certainly be looking for another spark from the Transfer Portal to replace their productivity. The Gamecocks were just 11-21 last season, and you have to wonder if Mack wants to finish out his career without a realistic chance to make the Big Dance. Still, he’d have plenty of chances to play a major role for the Gamecocks and would shine closer to home.
We’ve looked closely at the Top 5 schools on BJ Mack’s list; which of these programs do you think he’ll choose for the final season of his collegiate career?