re: What’s the story on Jalen Cook and Daimion Collins?

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I was really iffy on Hannibal running point at the start of the season. When Cook became eligible, he really upped his game. Essentially became the heart and soul of the team. Plays like it's his last game every night. Hate that it didn't work out with Cook but at least it was a catalyst for Hannibal's improved play.

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Hannibal at PG still creates some issue for LSU's offense because having a PG who is literally no shooting threat allows the defense to do different things to stop the other guys who are. That said, Hannibal is a great example of how sometimes great effort can make up/overcome some skill deficiencies. Every coach in America has at least one good player that could be so much better if he played with unrelenting effort. Hannibal is easily LSU's best rebounder and there is not a single possession where you can accuse him of loafing Even when he has an excuse to do so. He was cramping up late in the game vs. Kentucky and flat out refused to leave the floor.

There have been much, much better players at LSU than Hannibal over the years. But it's difficult to recall many, if any, who played harder night in and night out. Teammates appreciate that.