But when Wade needed solid defense in the closing seconds of LSU’s quarterfinal matchup with Michigan, which last March claimed the Big Ten tournament title, he got it in a huge way.

After the two defensive gems, an exuberant Wade rushed onto the court to congratulate his team on recording its first signature win in his short tenure.

Tremont Waters scored nine of LSU’s final 18 points and came up with a key steal that turned into a dunk by Mays to help the Tigers come all the way back from a nine-point deficit with 5:11 to play in the game.

Waters hit a step-back basket to tie it with 1:33 left, then stole the ball from Brooks at midcourt and fed Mays for a thunderous dunk that put LSU on top for good.

Brandon Rachal stripped Matthews 20 seconds later and Epps came up with the loose ball for another defensive stop that was instrumental in the victory as LSU outscored Michigan 18-7 down the stretch.