Mitchell’s Career Night Leads Jackson State Past Mississippi Valley State

ITTA BENA, Miss. — Jayme Mitchell Jr. scored a career-high 39 points and grabbed 13 rebounds to lead Jackson State to a 97-81 victory over Mississippi Valley State on Saturday at the R.W. Harrison HPER Complex.

Mitchell stepped up in the absence of Daeshun Ruffin, the nation’s second-leading scorer, who missed the game. The guard finished 9-of-19 from the floor and 17-of-19 from the free throw line. He was one of three Tigers in double figures, joined by Dorian McMillian with 23 points and four assists, and Dionjahe Thomas with 13 points and 12 rebounds for his third double-double of the season.

Jackson State shot 41.8% from the field and 34.3% beyond the arc. The team was efficient at the free throw line, making 29 of 35 attempts (82.9%), and dominated the rebounding battle 52-30. Mississippi Valley State shot 45.3% from the floor and 36.8% from three-point range. The Delta Devils were 16-for-24 (66.7%) at the free throw line.

Michael James led Mississippi Valley State with 32 points, while Daniel Mayfield scored 30. The game featured a tight first half, with Jackson State leading 45-38 at the break after shooting 40.6% from the field and 26.3% beyond the arc. The Tigers made 14 of 17 free throws in the first half.

In the second half, Jackson State shot 42.9% from the floor and maintained its free throw accuracy, sinking 15 of 18 attempts. Mississippi Valley State struggled offensively, shooting 48.5% in the second half but hitting just 2 of 8 from three-point range and 9 of 15 at the line.

The Tigers will conclude their road trip Monday against Arkansas-Pine Bluff. Jackson State remains in the SWAC standings with the win, led by Mitchell’s standout performance.

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