With only 11 days until tip-off, Spotlight: LSU Basketball introduces sophomore Shane Hammink. The 6'7" Shooting Forward plays with international flair, slashing to the basket and spreading the floor. Shane is an LSU legacy born of Geert Hammink, who played at LSU from 1988 to 1993.

Shane was considered one of the top players out of Europe coming into his freshman year, but found the speed of the American college game challenging. In his freshman year, Hammink played in 26 of LSU's 31 games averaging 10.8 minutes, 2.1 points, and 1.7 rebounds per game. In his limited time as a freshman, he shot only 35% from the field and 58% from the free throw line.

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Though his freshman year didn't go as well as planned, he still can prove his worth, however, with a newly padded roster, his playing time is likely to fall in his sophomore season. In his first collegiate game, he scored 10 points in 20 minutes and hit 2 of 3 from three point range. However, for those times to continue, Shane will need to work on his defense.

Similar to Malik Morgan, Shane guarded opponents with his hands rather than his feet. He tried to use his length rather than guard with his body in front. With LSU's man to man defense, Shane has trouble. If Shane is able to really improve his defense, he could get some minutes for the Tigers.

Chances are, Shane sees about 5 minutes per game barring any significant injury issues LSU has. developing him into a perimeter defender will be important for his progress. However, LSU will be happy to have the 6'7" frame in practice and as all players on LSU's roster, Hammink will be an important piece to this LSU basketball squad.

Filed Under: LSU Basketball