Mississippi State Faces Missouri in Key SEC Matchup
Mississippi State men’s basketball will play its final game of the SEC’s first half Saturday afternoon at Missouri’s Mizzou Arena. The Bulldogs (11-10, 3-5 SEC) are led by Josh Hubbard and Jayden Epps, who have combined for 35.5 points per game, ranking second among SEC duos this season, according to the school.
The Tigers (14-7, 4-4 SEC) started the season with an 8-0 record but have lost three of their last four league games. Their most recent loss was a 90-64 decision at No. 23 Alabama, according to Missouri athletics.
Missouri features three players averaging in double figures, led by Mark Mitchell with 17.4 points per game. Jayden Stone and Jacob Crews also contribute double-digit scoring, with Mitchell having scored in double figures 19 of 21 games this season. He has hit 20 or more points nine times, Missouri athletics reported.
Mississippi State secured its third consecutive NCAA Tournament bid in 2024-25, marking only the third time in program history. The Bulldogs are aiming for their second four-year NCAA Tournament streak, a feat last achieved from 2001 to 2005 under Rick Stansbury. The program is among seven SEC teams and 25 nationally with a current streak of at least three NCAA appearances, according to the school.
At Humphrey Coliseum, attendance has been among the nation’s highest during Chris Jans’ tenure as head coach. The arena celebrated its 50th anniversary on Dec. 1. Fans can purchase tickets for remaining home games through Mississippi State’s athletic ticket office or by calling the number provided.
Series history favors Mississippi State, which has won eight of the last 11 meetings since 2018-19. Overall, the Bulldogs hold a 14-8 edge in the series. Missouri won both matchups last season, including an 85-73 victory in the SEC Tournament second round, according to school records.
The game is scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 31, at 2:31 p.m. CT. It will be broadcast on the SEC Network, with live stats available via Stat Broadcast. The radio broadcast is available through the Mississippi State Sports Network, powered by Learfield.
Head coach Chris Jans, in his fourth season leading State, has a .698 winning percentage and has led the Bulldogs to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances. His staff includes assistants George Brooks, David Anwar, Patrice Days, Scott Padgett, and Dillon Elder, according to school information.
Key players include senior guard Josh Hubbard, a two-time All-SEC Second-Team selection, and Shawn Jones Jr., who has improved his scoring this season. Hubbard ranks among SEC leaders in points, three-pointers, and assists, while Jones Jr. has contributed off the bench and reached 100 steals in his career, Missouri athletics reported.
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