LSU basketball’s 2025–2026 roster now includes star guard Dedan Thomas Jr.

The LSU Tigers have made a significant splash in the college basketball world for the 2025–2026 season by securing the commitment of star guard Dedan Thomas Jr., one of the most promising transfers to enter the college basketball scene. After two standout seasons at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), Thomas has decided to bring his talents to Baton Rouge, joining a roster eager to make a return to the top of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) standings.

A Brief Overview of Dedan Thomas Jr.’s Early Career

Born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada, Dedan Thomas Jr. was always bound for the spotlight. The son of Dedan Thomas Sr., a former UNLV star, it was clear that Dedan Jr. had basketball in his blood. From an early age, his athletic abilities were evident, and he became one of the most sought-after prospects in the state.

By the time he graduated from high school, Thomas had built a reputation as a dynamic point guard with an exceptional basketball IQ. He reclassified to join the freshman class of 2023–2024 at UNLV, bypassing his senior year of high school in order to jump straight into college basketball. His decision paid off, as he quickly became one of the most exciting young players in the Mountain West Conference.

In his first season at UNLV, Thomas had a meteoric rise. He averaged 13.6 points and 5.1 assists per game, establishing himself as the team’s primary playmaker and scorer. But perhaps even more impressive was his ability to control the tempo of games and distribute the basketball effectively. With 174 assists on the season, he set a Mountain West Conference freshman record and was awarded the Co-Freshman of the Year honors, a prestigious recognition that further solidified his place as one of the brightest young stars in college basketball.

The Sophomore Season: A Continued Rise

In his sophomore season (2024–2025), Thomas continued to impress, building on his freshman campaign with even more significant contributions. He led the Rebels with 15.6 points per game and 4.7 assists, solidifying himself as one of the most dangerous and well-rounded guards in the country. His performances were characterized by his ability to create shots for himself and his teammates, as well as his flair for the dramatic when the game was on the line.

Thomas’s versatility was on full display throughout the season, and he showed his capacity to be a big-game player. One of his standout performances came in the Mountain West Tournament, where he scored a career-high 29 points in a thrilling contest against San Diego State. His clutch play down the stretch helped UNLV secure a solid position in the tournament, and it was clear that Thomas was capable of leading his team in high-pressure situations.

However, as the season progressed, Thomas suffered a shoulder injury that forced him to miss the final seven games of the year. Despite the setback, he still finished the season with an impressive list of accolades, including preseason All-Mountain West Team honors and a strong position in the NBA draft discussions for the upcoming year.

The Transfer Decision: LSU’s Big Opportunity

After his injury, Thomas entered the transfer portal, exploring his options for a change of scenery. His decision to leave UNLV was motivated by a combination of factors, including the coaching changes that took place within the program. But despite his success in the Mountain West, Thomas was eager to challenge himself at a higher level and compete in one of the toughest conferences in the country: the Southeastern Conference.

In a decision that shocked many, Thomas ultimately committed to LSU. The Tigers, led by head coach Matt McMahon, were coming off a rebuilding phase and were eager to land a star player who could immediately contribute to their offense. LSU, with its rich basketball history and competitive SEC environment, proved to be an attractive destination for Thomas.

As he explained during his commitment announcement, Thomas was drawn to LSU’s strong basketball culture, the opportunity to play in a premier conference, and the chance to work with a coaching staff known for developing elite talent. LSU’s campus, basketball facilities, and overall commitment to excellence were major factors in his decision.

What Dedan Thomas Jr. Brings to LSU

With Dedan Thomas Jr. joining the fold, LSU’s backcourt is set to undergo a major transformation. Here’s an in-depth look at what Thomas brings to the Tigers and how he fits into their system.

Scoring Prowess

One of Thomas’s most defining traits is his ability to score in a variety of ways. Whether it’s driving to the rim, pulling up for a mid-range jumper, or knocking down a three-pointer, Thomas is a versatile scorer who can do it all. His offensive game has been refined over his two seasons at UNLV, and he has developed a reputation as one of the best shot creators in the country. LSU’s offense has been inconsistent in recent years, and Thomas’s scoring ability will provide the team with much-needed firepower.

Playmaking and Basketball IQ

While Thomas is known for his scoring ability, his playmaking skills are equally impressive. In both of his seasons at UNLV, he led the team in assists and showed an innate ability to run an offense. He excels at reading defenses, making precise passes, and setting up his teammates for easy buckets. His vision and court awareness will be a huge asset for LSU, as the team looks to improve its offensive flow and ball movement.

Leadership and Experience

Although still relatively young, Thomas brings with him a wealth of experience from his time at UNLV. He has played in a number of high-stakes games and has proven that he can handle the pressure of being the go-to player in crunch time. This experience will be invaluable for LSU, especially as the team seeks to return to national prominence.

Additionally, Thomas’s leadership qualities will be crucial in helping LSU’s younger players develop. His ability to communicate on the floor, mentor teammates, and lead by example will be essential in building team chemistry.

Defensive Capabilities

While Thomas is primarily known for his offensive skill set, he is also a capable defender. His quickness and ability to read passing lanes make him a disruptive force on defense. Although his defense may not be as highly regarded as his offensive game, Thomas’s overall athleticism and commitment to the defensive end will be an asset for LSU.

The Impact on LSU’s Roster and 2025–2026 Season Outlook

Dedan Thomas Jr. joins a promising LSU roster that is hungry to return to the top of the SEC. With his addition, the Tigers now have a dynamic playmaker and scorer who can elevate the entire team. LSU’s backcourt, which has struggled with consistency in recent years, will be much improved with Thomas at the helm.

Additionally, Thomas’s arrival should also help recruit other top-tier players to Baton Rouge. As one of the most sought-after transfers in the country, his commitment to LSU sends a strong message to future recruits about the program’s ambitions.

Looking ahead to the 2025–2026 season, LSU’s expectations will be high. With Thomas leading the charge in the backcourt, the Tigers are poised to be competitive not only in the SEC but on the national stage as well. The combination of Thomas’s scoring, playmaking, and leadership will make LSU a formidable force in college basketball.

 A Bright Future for LSU Basketball

With the addition of Dedan Thomas Jr., LSU has significantly strengthened its basketball program for the 2025–2026 season. His dynamic skill set and leadership abilities will play a pivotal role in the Tigers’ success moving forward. As LSU aims to return to national prominence, Thomas is the kind of player who can make that dream a reality.

His journey from UNLV to LSU represents a new chapter in his career, one that could lead to even greater achievements. With a talented supporting cast and a determined coaching staff, LSU is on the path to becoming a powerhouse in the SEC and beyond. Fans can look forward to an exciting season filled with high-flying plays, clutch moments, and the undeniable influence of Dedan Thomas Jr.

As LSU fans gear up for what promises to be an electrifying season, the Tigers’ future looks brighter than ever with Thomas leading the charge.