Excitement Builds in Starkville as Cameron Matthews Leads the Way for Mississippi State Basketball

Excitement Builds in Starkville as Cameron Matthews Leads the Way for Mississippi State Basketball

Starkville, Mississippi – As the leaves start to turn and the air gets a little crisper, basketball fans in Starkville can feel the buzz in the air. With the new season just around the corner, all eyes are on Cameron Matthews, the rising star of the Mississippi State Bulldogs. Finding Matthews’ name on any All-SEC list is a challenge, much like hunting for Waldo, but that doesn’t mean he’s not at the forefront of every coach’s game plan.

Despite being overlooked, Matthews has proven time and time again that he’s a player who doesn’t mind staying under the radar. Hailing from Mississippi, he embodies the spirit of determination and resilience that many local athletes possess. His focus remains on one thing: helping the Bulldogs win games. This zeal is why Matthews chose to return to Starkville for his final season, feeling there was more to achieve.

One Last Ride

“I’m super excited, especially for the season. It’s my last go-round, and I want to make the best of it,” Matthews expressed during a recent interview. “I looked at my options, weighed the pros and cons, and talked to my guy (Josh Hubbard). I made the decision to come back and do it one more time.”

At a towering 6’7″ and weighing in at 235 pounds, Matthews is nothing short of a powerhouse on the court. His physicality and skill set put him right at home in the SEC where he could easily transition to playing football if basketball wasn’t his first love. But make no mistake; Matthews excels on the hardwood and has become an invaluable asset for the Bulldogs.

Recognized Talent

Matthews’ unique skill set has long been recognized, highlighting him as one of the top “glue guys” in the league. After being included in a top 10 list last season, Matthews has once again found a place among the best heading into the new year. “Like a queen on a chessboard, Matthews can be moved all over the floor,” noted an observer, emphasizing Matthews’ versatility. “Capable of guarding five positions, he has played a significant role in the Bulldogs’ back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances.”

To achieve a third consecutive tournament appearance, Matthews knows he must elevate his game even further this season. The Bulldogs have set their sights high, and the pressure is on to deliver.

A Journey of Improvement

Matthews has shown impressive growth throughout his college career, growing from averaging less than three points per game during his first two years to 9.4 points per game last season. His rebounding numbers have steadily increased, capped off by a remarkable shooting percentage of 62% last year. With a continued focus on improving his shot—especially beyond the arc—this season could see Matthews breaking more personal records.

“I was focused on becoming a more complete player over the summer,” Matthews said. “It’s important to adapt as basketball evolves, and being able to make threes has become a necessity. That’s been a major focus for me.”

A Fresh New Look for the Bulldogs

This season promises to look quite different for the Bulldogs as they shift their style of play. With a revamped roster thanks to strategic transfers, Coach Chris Jans has assembled a team that could bring a new energy to the Humphrey Coliseum. Fans can expect a faster-paced game complemented by the added shooting talent that has been brought in.

Looking Ahead

As Matthews and the Bulldogs gear up for what promises to be an exciting season, the anticipation is palpable among fans and teammates alike. The atmosphere in Starkville is electric, and with Matthews leading the charge, there’s no telling what this season might bring. It’s clear that the Mississippi State Bulldogs aren’t just aiming for participation; they are ready to make their mark and compete for glory once again.