Uncertainty surrounds LSU’s basketball program after they were bumped from the Sweet 16 Friday night.
In Baton Rouge, Zippy’s on Perkins Road was flooded with Tiger fans as they cheered on LSU’s March Madness run. Following the loss, fans say LSU had an incredible season despite the amount of controversy surrounding them.
The “L“ plunges LSU into uncertainty given the corruption scandal that left coach Will Wade suspended indefinitely for comments he reportedly made about his recruiting efforts on a phone call that was wiretapped as part of an FBI investigation. Wade, who had been replaced by interim coach Tony Benford, is expected to appear at a federal trial April 22.
It’s unclear what ramifications the program will face. Freshman Javonte Smart, who was a surprise starter against Michigan State, is the player Wade was recorded as saying he’d “take care of.“ Meanwhile, Reid and Waters are candidates to enter the NBA Draft.
“We don’t know what’s going on,“ Waters said. “We’re just going to keep doing what we’ve been doing, stay in the gym and pretty much talk to our families and see what the next step is.“
After the game, our Brian Holland caught up with Smart who said he’s focused on his future. You can hear his full comments above.
(The Associated Press contributed to this report)