What's Happening?
The Ole Miss Rebels men's basketball team began their 2025-26 season with a decisive 88-58 victory over Southeastern Louisiana. Senior forward Malik Dia led the team with 20 points, surpassing 1,000 career
points in the process. The game, held at the SJB Pavilion, saw Ole Miss overcome a slow start to dominate both halves. Key players included AJ Storr, who scored 18 points, and Ilias Kamardine, who contributed 13 points. Coach Chris Beard emphasized the importance of team depth, with a 10-man rotation proving effective in maintaining a high pace and defensive pressure throughout the game.
Why It's Important?
This victory sets a positive tone for Ole Miss as they aim to build on last season's success, where they reached the Sweet 16. The performance of Malik Dia and AJ Storr highlights the team's scoring potential, while Coach Beard's focus on depth could be crucial in navigating the competitive SEC conference. The win also underscores the team's ability to adapt and overcome early challenges, a trait that will be vital in their pursuit of postseason success.
What's Next?
Ole Miss will face Louisiana Monroe in their next game at the SJB Pavilion. This matchup will provide another opportunity for the Rebels to refine their strategies and continue building momentum early in the season. Coach Beard's emphasis on depth and unselfish play will likely be tested as the team seeks to maintain their winning form.
Beyond the Headlines
The game showcased the potential impact of new transfers and international players like Ilias Kamardine, who bring diverse skills and experiences to the team. This blend of talent could lead to innovative play styles and strategic advantages as the season progresses. Additionally, Malik Dia's milestone of surpassing 1,000 career points highlights his leadership and experience, which will be pivotal in guiding younger players.
