Matt McMahon gets recruiting victory as 4-star forward commits to LSU

Don't look now, but the start of the LSU men's basketball season is right around the corner. The Tigers are looking to get back on track after posting a less-than-ideal 3-15 SEC record in 2024-25. Tiger basketball fans want to see more from head coach Matt McMahon, who owns a 45-53 overall record and 14-40 SEC record in three seasons at LSU.

As the program gears up for the new campaign, McMahon and his staff continue to build LSU's2026 recruiting class. Those efforts got a boost today when 4-star small forward Kevin Thomas announced his commitment to the Tigers.

4-star forward Kevin Thomas commits to LSU

Hailing from Montverde, FL, Thomas is rated by 247Sports as the No. 72 prospect and No. 29 small forward in the 2026 class. He chose to attend LSU over other offers from Auburn, Florida State, and Miami (FL).

When making his decision, Thomas told 247Sports that he ultimately chose LSU because of his relationship with the coaching staff. He said that the staff emphasized his potential to play at the next level and laid out a clear plan for his development. Thomas also likes LSU style of play, as the quick pace aligns with his style of play at Montverde Academy.

Owning a 6' 6", 195-pound frame, Thomas is described by 247Sports Director of Scouting Adam Finkelstein as a "dynamic transition finisher who doesn’t just rise-up quickly, but with force. While his leaping ability is his calling card, he’s not unskilled. He’s an improved shooter, who can now make open shots to the arc when he has room and rhythm, but gets streaky when he falls forward into his shot or lets his left shoulder dip."

Thomas is the third commit for LSU's 2026 recruiting class. He joins 4-star small forward Herly Brutus and 4-star forward Marcus Vaughns. Vaughns committed to the Tigers back in May, and Brutus committed in September.

LSU is set to open the 2025-26 season on Wednesday, Nov. 5 vs Tarleton State. The Tigers open SEC play on Jan. 3 at Texas A&M.