LSU Freshman Tight End Trey’Dez Green Joins Men’s Basketball Team: A New Chapter for the Athlete

In a remarkable display of versatility and athleticism, Trey’Dez Green, a freshman tight end for the Louisiana State University (LSU) football team, has taken a bold step into the world of college basketball. Green, whose prowess on the football field has already made waves, is now turning heads on the basketball court, joining the LSU men’s basketball team. This development has stirred excitement among fans of both sports, and the story of his transition highlights his exceptional athletic abilities and the unique challenges that come with juggling two demanding sports at the collegiate level.

The Transition to Basketball

Trey’Dez Green’s move from football to basketball is not an ordinary one. As a standout tight end, Green was already garnering attention for his skills on the football field. At 6’5″ and a powerful 250 pounds, he possesses the ideal frame for football’s tight end position—strong enough to block, yet fast and agile enough to make plays in the passing game. However, Green’s talents extend far beyond football, and his love for basketball runs deep.

Growing up in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Green was a multi-sport athlete, excelling in both football and basketball. As a high school athlete, he was a key player for the Zachary High School basketball team in addition to his duties on the football field. His basketball skills are evident in his agility, basketball IQ, and the coordination that makes him a valuable asset on the hardwood. Even though football ultimately became his primary focus when he entered college, basketball never truly left his heart.

Green’s decision to join the LSU men’s basketball team came after discussions with head coach Matt McMahon and the coaching staff. They recognized his potential on the court, particularly given his combination of size, athleticism, and basketball experience. McMahon, who took over the LSU program in 2022, sees Green’s addition as a way to deepen the team’s depth and bring a unique dimension to the squad.

A Dual-Sport Athlete at LSU

Being a dual-sport athlete at the collegiate level is a rare and difficult feat, requiring time management, dedication, and a relentless work ethic. The physical demands of football and basketball are distinct, yet complementary. Football players need strength, speed, and endurance for long plays and physical collisions, while basketball players rely on agility, quick reflexes, and high levels of cardiovascular fitness. For Green, maintaining peak performance in both sports requires an immense commitment to conditioning and training.

The challenge of balancing the two sports at a high level can be overwhelming. The LSU football and basketball schedules, though not completely overlapping, often feature periods of heavy competition and rigorous practice. Green must manage his time effectively, prioritizing recovery, nutrition, and rest while maintaining focus on both teams’ needs. Fortunately for Green, LSU has a sports science and performance department that is equipped to help athletes in multi-sport situations.

For Trey’Dez, the opportunity to compete in both sports also carries with it a sense of pride and purpose. It allows him to represent LSU in multiple arenas, showcasing his versatility as an athlete. The football team and basketball team have both embraced his decision, with football head coach Brian Kelly offering his full support. Kelly has praised Green for his work ethic and his willingness to embrace challenges outside of football, and he has encouraged Green to explore his athletic passions further.

LSU Men’s Basketball Team: A Team in Transition

Green’s addition to the LSU men’s basketball team is occurring during a period of transition for the program. After the departure of long-time head coach Will Wade, Coach Matt McMahon has taken the reins and begun reshaping the team. McMahon, who previously built successful programs at Murray State, has worked tirelessly to develop a new identity for LSU basketball.

The 2024-2025 season has already been one of growth for LSU, as the team brings in new talent and integrates fresh strategies under McMahon’s leadership. Green’s arrival adds an intriguing element to the team’s roster. He is expected to play both forward and center positions, given his size and athletic build. While he may not immediately become a star player, Green’s basketball IQ and familiarity with the game could help him make an impact early on.

One area where Green’s physical attributes will certainly make a difference is on the defensive end. His strength and size could give LSU an edge in rebounding, post defense, and protecting the rim. Offensively, Green’s ability to stretch the floor and finish around the basket will make him a versatile weapon in McMahon’s system. His familiarity with team-oriented play, developed through his years of football experience, should also help him in basketball’s fast-paced, high-pressure environment.

The Role of a Multi-Sport Athlete at LSU

While the idea of a multi-sport athlete may seem outdated in the modern age of specialization, LSU has long been a breeding ground for talented individuals who thrive in multiple arenas. Historically, LSU has produced athletes who have succeeded in both football and track, football and baseball, and even football and basketball. Trey’Dez Green’s decision to pursue both football and basketball at LSU continues this legacy of excellence.

However, Green is not just any athlete. He represents a new generation of players who are determined to push the boundaries of what is possible in college sports. In an era when athletes are often encouraged to specialize early in their careers, Green’s story serves as a reminder of the value of diversification and the potential benefits of excelling in multiple disciplines.

As a student-athlete at LSU, Trey’Dez Green also represents the university’s commitment to providing its athletes with opportunities beyond the playing field. LSU has made significant strides in supporting dual-sport athletes by providing the necessary resources for them to succeed. This includes academic tutoring, physical therapy, and specialized training programs to help Green and other multi-sport athletes manage the pressures of competing in two sports simultaneously.

Trey’Dez Green’s Impact on LSU Football

Of course, Trey’Dez Green’s primary commitment is to the LSU football team, where he has already made a significant impact as a freshman. Green was highly touted coming out of high school, and he has shown flashes of his immense potential on the gridiron. His combination of size, speed, and hands makes him an ideal candidate for the tight end position in head coach Brian Kelly’s offense.

Despite his new basketball commitments, Green remains focused on his football development. He has the potential to be a key player for LSU in the coming seasons, whether as a pass-catcher, blocker, or both. As one of the team’s most promising young stars, Green’s versatility will be an asset for the Tigers as they continue to build on their success in the SEC.

As his football career progresses, Green’s growth in basketball may actually benefit him on the field as well. Many of the skills that translate well from basketball to football—such as hand-eye coordination, leaping ability, and overall athleticism—are crucial in football. By refining these skills on the basketball court, Green could see improvements in his football performance, particularly when it comes to tracking passes and using his body to shield defenders.

The Future of Trey’Dez Green

Looking ahead, Trey’Dez Green has a bright future at LSU, both as a football player and a basketball player. Whether or not he ultimately plays professional basketball is yet to be seen, but Green certainly has the tools to succeed in both sports at the collegiate level. His commitment to both football and basketball serves as an inspiration to athletes across the nation, demonstrating that it is possible to pursue excellence in multiple sports, even at the highest levels of competition.

In the coming seasons, fans of both LSU football and basketball will no doubt be excited to watch Trey’Dez Green’s journey unfold. His story of pursuing dual-sport greatness is a testament to his dedication, versatility, and passion for the game, making him a player to watch in the future of LSU athletics. Whether he’s catching a touchdown pass or grabbing a rebound on the hardwood, Green’s journey will undoubtedly be one to follow closely.