by Ryan Rogers
LSUsports.net
BATON ROUGE — The LSU Tigers are off to their fastest start in over a decade, undefeated, receiving votes in Associated Press Top 25 poll and looking every bit like a team that could be 11-0 heading into a match with Oklahoma State in New Orleans on Dec. 30.
Their success is large in part to the fact that a high number of off-season goals were accomplished. One of those goals was to recruit personnel that would step in and contribute right away. While he didn’t come to Baton Rouge with the notoriety of recruits Lamont Roland and Torris Bright, true freshmen forward Ronald Dupree has done that for the Tigers this year when given the opportunity.
Dupree is a product of Biloxi High School in Mississippi. His accomplishments at the prep ranks include being named to the all-district, all-coast, all-state, and the Mississippi Dandy Dozen. He was also named MVP of the Adidas double pump camp, and the MVP of the Alabama-Mississippi high school all-star game. He chose LSU because he felt LSU had four good ingredients.
“The school had a great atmosphere, athletic program, academics, and people”, said Dupree.
Dupree has come off the bench for the Tigers and played well early in the season.
“As a freshmen I just wanted to provide a spark off the bench. I know I can help us rebound when I’m in the game.”
Dupree has helped the Tigers so far, averaging 5.1 points a game and 2.4 rebounds a game. He had season highs against Grambling with 21 points and 8 rebounds.
Dupree’s greatest asset is his versatility. A natural small forward, yet he has the ability to play power forward and shooting guard if necessary. This will come in very handy for Coach Brady with his limitations in personnel due to LSU’s current situation with probation. The reduction in scholarships will make it hard to for the Tigers to find quality backups.
Dupree is a good shooter, which allows him to play outside. He also is equipped with great jumping ability, which allows him to fight for rebounds inside much easier. His skills can be a tremendous help to the team. Dupree has some long-term goals at LSU. He would like to see more playing time down the road.
“I want to become more of a roll player as this season goes on”, said Dupree.
Only a freshmen, Ronald has lots of time to improve and become an even better basketball player.
“We’ve been playing games that are hard to really get up for. As soon as conference games come around, we will be a better team because will have more enthusiasm.”
Other than the Hawaii tournament, the Tigers have yet to face a team that overmatches them talent wise.
“I hope to be successful at LSU and win a conference title. Maybe even get a shot at the NBA one day, but I know I have to concentrate on my studies while I’m here so I can have a secure future.”
Ronald plans to major in Electrical Engineering at LSU.