Baton Rouge, LA – In a surprising move that has sent ripples through the college basketball world, LSU Tigers forward Daimion Collins has announced his intention to transfer from the program. In a statement released via social media, Collins cited a strained relationship with an assistant coach and the coach’s allegedly negative and demoralizing comments as the primary reason behind his decision.
Collins’ decision comes as a shock to many in the LSU community and across the NCAA, as the former five-star recruit was expected to play a major role for the Tigers in the upcoming season. After transferring to LSU from Kentucky, Collins was seen as a high-potential athlete ready for a fresh start in Baton Rouge. Standing at 6’9″, with explosive athleticism and shot-blocking prowess, his presence on the court brought a dynamic energy to LSU’s frontcourt. However, his time with the program was marked by inconsistency in minutes and growing tension behind the scenes.
According to Collins’ social media post, which quickly went viral, the tipping point came after months of what he described as “persistent disrespect and psychological wear.” While he didn’t name the assistant coach directly, sources close to the situation have hinted at ongoing friction between Collins and a member of the coaching staff, reportedly stemming from criticism that veered beyond performance and into personal territory.
“This decision did not come easy,” Collins wrote. “I came to LSU with high hopes, ready to work and contribute to something special. But when the environment becomes toxic, and your mental health and dignity are on the line, you have to make a change. The comments directed at me were not constructive—they were demeaning, and they made me question my love for the game.”
Reactions from the college basketball world have been swift and polarized. Some former players and analysts have voiced support for Collins, praising his courage to speak up about a situation that many athletes endure in silence. Others have expressed concern over the broader implications for LSU’s program, questioning the coaching staff’s culture and leadership.
LSU has not yet issued an official statement in response to Collins’ claims, but sources indicate that internal discussions are underway. The university’s athletic department is reportedly evaluating the allegations and is expected to conduct a review to determine whether disciplinary action is necessary or if structural changes need to be made within the coaching hierarchy.
For LSU fans, this development adds to a tumultuous offseason marked by high turnover and uncertainty. With Collins now entering the transfer portal, the Tigers will need to quickly reassess their roster and recruiting strategy. More importantly, the program will face growing scrutiny regarding how it fosters a supportive environment for its athletes.
Daimion Collins’ story touches on a larger conversation happening in college sports today. The mental health and emotional well-being of student-athletes are becoming increasingly central to public discourse. In recent years, players across different sports and institutions have come forward to discuss the pressure, mistreatment, and lack of support they sometimes face. Collins’ decision to share his experience may encourage others to voice their own struggles and bring about meaningful change in how athletes are treated.
As Collins prepares for his next chapter, speculation is already building about where he might land. Given his talent and remaining eligibility, he is expected to draw interest from several high-major programs. Wherever he goes next, Collins hopes to find not only a better basketball fit but also an environment that values respect and support.
In closing his statement, Collins wrote, “This isn’t the end of my journey—it’s a new beginning. I’m still hungry, still passionate, and still ready to prove myself. But I’ll only do it in a place where I’m respected and uplifted.”
Time will tell where Daimion Collins ends up next, but for now, his departure sends a strong message—not just to LSU, but to college p
rograms everywhere.