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Ole Miss and Mississippi State Women’s Basketball Clash in Starkville

The thrilling women's basketball game between Ole Miss and Mississippi State at Humphrey Coliseum.

News Summary

On January 18, basketball enthusiasts in Starkville will witness a thrilling matchup as the Ole Miss Rebels face the Mississippi State Bulldogs. This heated rivalry marks the 107th meeting between the two programs, with Ole Miss leading the series. Both teams come into the game with strong records, making it a pivotal encounter for their season standings. With key players stepping up, fans can expect an action-packed game at Humphrey Coliseum.

Exciting Showdown in Starkville: Ole Miss and Mississippi State Women’s Basketball Face Off

This Sunday, January 18, basketball fans in Starkville, Mississippi, are gearing up for a fantastic game as the Ole Miss Rebels take on the Mississippi State Bulldogs in what promises to be an electrifying clash at Humphrey Coliseum. Scheduled to tip off at 2:00 p.m. CT, this will be the 107th meeting between these two competitive programs, highlighting a rich history filled with thrilling moments.

A Rivalry for the Ages

As the competitors hit the court, it’s hard not to feel the buzz of this long-standing rivalry. Ole Miss currently leads the all-time series with an impressive record of 67 wins to 39 losses against the Bulldogs. The Rebels have seen great success in Starkville too, boasting a 26-23 tally on the road. Their dominance was particularly evident from 1982 to 1997, when they strung together a staggering 33-game winning streak.

But it hasn’t all been one-sided. The Bulldogs made a strong push in recent years, even claiming a nearly 10-year winning streak against Ole Miss that ended in 2022. In the last six encounters, the Rebels have found their stride, winning four of those matchups, and split their games last season, setting the stage for what many fans hope will be another dramatic chapter in this storied rivalry.

Current Season Overview

As the teams prepare for the upcoming showdown, Ole Miss enters with a 12-5 record and a 3-2 mark in SEC play, under the guidance of Head Coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin, who is in her seventh season and has a career record of 209-152. On the other hand, Mississippi State holds a solid 15-4 record and 2-3 in the SEC, driven by the leadership of Head Coach Sam Purcell, who is in his third season and carries a career record of 60-27.

This season, Ole Miss has showcased their strength, recently defeating Florida with a remarkable score of 94-69, marking their highest point total this year. Freshman standout Sira Thienou made headlines by scoring a career-high 29 points in that game, becoming the first Rebel to surpass 20 points in a game this season.

Key Players and Stats

As the Rebels prepare for this significant matchup, players to watch include Madison Scott, who led Ole Miss with 20 points in their last showdown against Mississippi State. On Mississippi State’s side, Madina Okot shines with a shooting percentage of 67.8%, the highest in the SEC. Additionally, Jerkaila Jordan stands out as one of the most prolific active scorers in the conference, boasting over 2,100 career points.

Ole Miss has also made noise with their defensive strategy, forcing an average of 23.5 turnovers per game, good enough for third in the SEC and 13th in the nation, showcasing their ability to pressure opponents effectively.

What’s at Stake?

As both teams vie for a higher ranking and a spot in the coveted Top 25, fans can expect a fiercely contested game filled with talent, determination, and the unique spirit of competition that defines this rivalry. Tickets for the game are still available, offering fans a chance to witness this exciting encounter live.

With the stage set and adrenaline running high, the clash between Ole Miss and Mississippi State promises to be a memorable one for players and fans alike. Mark your calendars and get ready for a thrilling battle on the court!