11:40 LRN Sportscast Feb 19

It’s opening day of college baseball and several new faces will be on the field for the LSU Tigers. Starting at first base its Greg Deichman. The sophomore from Metairie is expected to carry on LSU’s winning tradition…
cut 17 (14) “….winning tradition”
LSU will host Cincinnati in the first game of the 2016 season. Jared Poche, who won nine games last season, will start for the Tigers.

In other action around the state….Louisiana Tech faces Prairie View in New Orleans. Southern also plays Grambling in New Orleans. ULM is at Southeastern Louisiana. The Ragin Cajuns host Sam Houston State. McNeese State hosts Southern Illinois and Northwestern State takes on Alabama State.

In the NBA…after trading for him yesterday, the Pelicans released Jarnell Stokes today. The Pelicans have also signed guard Bryce Dejean-Jones, who has played in 11 games this season for the Pels and averaged six points and nearly four rebounds a game. New Orleans returns from the All-Star Break tonight as they host the Philadelphia 76ers.

Last night in college basketball…Louisiana Tech defeated Texas San Antonio 87-74. That’s the third straight win for the Bulldogs. Alex Hamilton led the way with 25 points.

ULM won easily over Texas State 76-57. Justin Roberson poured in 21 points and Majok Deng add 16 points for the 14-and-12 Warhawks.

Tough loss for the Ragin Cajuns as they fell to Texas-Arlington in overtime 84-83.

Tomorrow…LSU is at Tennessee. Coach Johnny Jones says Ben Simmons is playing with an injured finger, which may have led to his 10-for-19 free throw performance in the loss to Alabama.