It wasn't pretty and Ben Simmons wasn't the hero, but Louisiana State University scored a desperately needed win over US college basketball's 15th-ranked team, Texas A&M.
Simmons, the 19-year-old Melbourne prodigy set to be a multi-millionaire after June's NBA Draft, picked up another double-double with 16 points and 11 rebounds in Saturday's 76-71 victory on their home court in Baton Rouge.
But, Simmons' numbers were below his season average and the teenager took just 11 shots, scoring half of his points from free throws.
Simmons also showed frustration at times when teammates failed to pass him the ball.
Early in the second half Texas A&M appeared set to inflict another loss on LSU when they led 42-35.
The spark for LSU was senior guard Keith Hornsby, who threw his tattooed frame on the floor for loose balls to inspire his teammates and the home crowd and subdue the Aggies.
Hornsby ended the game with 15 points and five steals.
LSU and Texas A&M were both in need of the win, with LSU's nine losses placing them in danger of missing out on an invitation to next month's coveted 68-team NCAA tournament.
Texas A&M had risen to become the fifth-ranked team in the US after a strong start to the season, including a 71-57 demolition of LSU last month, but they slipped to 15th and have now lost four straight.
Simmons is expected to be the No.1 pick at the NBA Draft, although Oklahoma guard Buddy Hield is building momentum and is the favourite to win college basketball's individual awards.
Simmons' critics have pointed to the Australian's lack of aggression and unwillingness to dominate a game with the ball in his hands.
Against Texas A&M Simmons continued his role as a facilitator with seven assists.
With two minutes to go and LSU up 70-66 Simmons showed frustration with his teammates.
Simmons posted up near the top of the key and called for the ball, but guards Antonio Blakeney and Tim Quarterman did not pass it, resulting in the Australian waving his hands in exasperation.
LSU face Alabama at home on Wednesday, then travel to Tennessee and Arkansas.
LSU has a 16 win, nine loss record and sit on top of the Southeastern Conference standings with Kentucky, while Texas A&M falls to 18-7.
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