Chest Day: LSU transfer, rim-rattler, fisherman, future Ole Miss star (?)

Corey Chest, a forward from LSU, has become the first transfer secured by Ole Miss basketball this spring through the portal. After redshirting his first season, Chest played a significant role for LSU in 2024-25, appearing in 26 games (starting 19) and averaging 6.1 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game while shooting 60.7% from the field. He chose Ole Miss over several other programs, including Alabama, Auburn, Texas A&M, and Georgia.

In an introductory video, Chest stated his decision was based on his relationship with the Ole Miss coaching staff and the program's culture. He described his playing style as "explosive," cited Kevin Durant as his basketball idol, mentioned his love for fishing, and described himself as a "dawg." Standing at 6-foot-8, Chest is noted as a rebounder and rim protector, addressing a key need in the Ole Miss frontcourt following a season where the Rebels won 24 games and reached the Sweet 16.

Ole Miss has also bolstered its frontcourt with other additions: transfers James Scott (Louisville) and Augusto Cassia (Butler), plus Top 50 recruits and 4-stars Tylis Jordan and Niko Bundalo (the nation's No. 30 prospect in the 2025 class).

Ole Miss head coach Chris Beard commented on Chest from two perspectives: as an SEC transfer who already showed promise as a young player in the league, and as a still-developing sophomore who needs to contribute immediately while focusing on skill development. Beard highlighted Chest's athleticism as a "game-changer," his competitiveness, his coachability, and his value as a teammate. He believes Chest chose Ole Miss partly due to the program's vision for his immediate impact and future development potential.