Full Breakdown
Mississippi State Basketball Opens Season with Strong Win Over North Alabama
11/6/2025, 10:39:39 PM
Bulldogs Rally to Victory
Mississippi State men's basketball commenced its 2025-26 season with an 86-62 victory against North Alabama on November 5, 2025, at Humphrey Coliseum. The Bulldogs faced a challenging start, trailing by as much as nine points early in the second half. However, they mounted a significant comeback, outscoring the Lions 44-11 in the final stretch of the game. Junior guard Josh Hubbard led the team with 27 points, achieving a career-high eight assists without any turnovers.
Key Performers
Hubbard's performance was pivotal, as he shot 7-for-16 from the field and made 10 of 12 free throws. His contributions were complemented by UAB transfer Ja’Borri McGhee, who added 14 points off the bench in 23 minutes of play. McGhee's energy was crucial, as he not only scored but also provided defensive support, finishing with a plus-29 rating. Mississippi State's depth was evident, with eleven players seeing action, showcasing the team's extensive rotation.
Coaching Insights
Head coach Chris Jans expressed satisfaction with his team's resilience and conditioning, noting that their depth played a significant role in the comeback. "I thought our depth and our conditioning wore them out a little bit," Jans stated. He emphasized the importance of maintaining control and executing plays under pressure, which was a focus during the preseason.
North Alabama's Performance
North Alabama started strong, leading 51-42 early in the second half, bolstered by a 14-4 run. The Lions, coming off a successful previous season, demonstrated their capability but ultimately could not maintain their momentum. Despite their efforts, they struggled against Mississippi State's defensive adjustments and depth.
Looking Ahead
The Bulldogs will face their first major test against No. 18 Iowa State on November 10, 2025, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. This matchup will provide an opportunity for Mississippi State to gauge its performance against a ranked opponent and further solidify its identity under Jans.
Official Statements & Responses
Chris Jans remarked on the team's growth, stating, "We fully expected them to try to come out and punch us in the face... We got off the mat and fought back." He acknowledged the challenges faced during the game but highlighted the importance of the victory in setting the tone for the season.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I thought our depth and our conditioning wore them out a little bit,” — Chris Jans, Head Coach
- “We can take a punch. And we got hit pretty hard, the first five, six minutes they rocked us.” — Chris Jans, Head Coach
- “Jones: Just a team that’s got fight in them.” — Shawn Jones, Senior Guard
Conclusion
Mississippi State's strong opening performance against North Alabama sets a promising tone for the season. With key players like Josh Hubbard and Ja’Borri McGhee stepping up, the Bulldogs look to build on this momentum as they prepare for upcoming challenges in the competitive landscape of college basketball.
