Mississippi State coach Chris Jans discusses team struggles after loss to Missouri

Mississippi State men’s basketball coach Chris Jans criticized his team’s defensive performance and effort after an 88-64 loss to Missouri on Saturday. Jans said the Bulldogs have surrendered at least 85 points in four straight games.

Jans told reporters that despite strong practice sessions and enthusiasm in shootarounds, his team struggled to start games well. “We had a great day yesterday at practice. I thought they were really, really good considering what we had in the last outing, and where we are in the season,” he said.

The coach emphasized that his primary responsibility is to motivate his team to compete at the highest level regardless of circumstances. “It’s one of my major responsibilities, and it’s not happening,” Jans said. “That obviously hurts me to my core and what we believe in.”

Jans pointed to effort and execution as factors in the team’s struggles. “It’s definitely a combination of both,” he said. “Right now, effort is the focus. We’ve done it at times, but it hasn’t been consistent.”

Reflecting on a recent losing streak following a win at Ole Miss, Jans expressed frustration. “It feels like forever ago when we had that Ole Miss win. It’s more than frustrating,” he said. “I know they’re frustrated too. It’s my responsibility to fix it, and I’m not doing a good enough job.”

Jans also praised freshman King Grace for his performance despite dealing with a groin injury. “He was hesitant at first, but then something clicked mentally,” Jans said. “He played really aggressively and with confidence, which is positive for his development.”

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