What's Happening?
Mississippi State's basketball team achieved a hard-fought victory against Long Island University (LIU) with a final score of 87-83 at Humphrey Coliseum. The game was marked by a strong performance from
sophomore guard Josh Hubbard, who scored a season-high 34 points, including five 3-pointers. Despite LIU's aggressive play and ability to close the gap, Mississippi State maintained a slim lead at halftime and managed to hold on through the second half. The Bulldogs' success was also attributed to their effective free-throw shooting, going 23-for-30 from the line, with Hubbard, Jayden Epps, and Achor Achor contributing significantly. Coach Chris Jans praised the team's resilience and highlighted the importance of free throws in securing the win.
Why It's Important?
This victory is significant for Mississippi State as it marks their second consecutive win, boosting their confidence and momentum as they prepare for upcoming games. The performance of Josh Hubbard is particularly noteworthy, as his scoring ability and leadership on the court were crucial in overcoming LIU's challenge. The game also demonstrated the importance of free-throw accuracy in close contests, a factor that could be pivotal in future matchups. For LIU, the game showcased their competitive spirit and ability to challenge higher-ranked teams, which could bode well for their season prospects.
What's Next?
Mississippi State will aim to build on this victory as they prepare to host Memphis at Humphrey Coliseum. The game is scheduled for Saturday at 3 p.m. and will be televised on ESPN. This upcoming matchup presents an opportunity for the Bulldogs to further solidify their standing and continue their winning streak. Coach Jans and the team will likely focus on maintaining their free-throw efficiency and defensive strategies to counter Memphis's strengths.
