WSU Cougs Face Mississippi State Bulldogs: WSU (2-0) is on a roll, clinching two dominant wins against the competition they’re built to handle. The real challenge is up next, facing Mississippi State (3-0) at the Hall of Fame Tip-Off Tournament. The Bulldogs, having already beaten Arizona State, are a formidable opponent. Last year, Mississippi State made it to the NCAA tournament’s First Four section but lost by a single point to Pittsburgh.
This season, the Bulldogs boast an average margin of victory of 22, while the Cougs, with two wins, have an average margin of victory of 21.5. Both teams have been handling their business, but neither has faced a formidable opponent yet.
Although the Cougs won previous meetings by over ten points, recent records tell a different story. Since the 2019-2020 season, the Cougs haven’t cleared a .600 record, coming closest with a .595 record in the 2021-22 season. In contrast, the Bulldogs achieved it twice, including last year’s tournament appearance with a .618 record.
While the teams seem similar, recent success favors Mississippi State in both regular and post-season play. Leading in scoring are Mississippi State’s guards Trey Fort (13.7) and Josh Hubbard (13.3). Forward Jimmy Bell Jr. dominates the boards with 11.7 rebounds.
The Cougs, led by Andrej Jakimovski (17.5 points per game), showcase more talent on the surface. In so few games played, these stats may not mean much, but it looks promising for WSU.
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The second tournament game is uncertain, depending on the other bracket’s outcome. If Rhode Island wins, it’s a historic first matchup. Rhode Island, at 3-0, has been averaging a staggering 81 points per game. If Northwestern wins, it’s the third matchup in history, with the Cougs leading the series 2-1.
Facing their first Power Six opponent this year, the Cougs aim to turn heads by defeating the Bulldogs and securing a second tournament-clinching win. The game is set for 9 a.m. Saturday in Connecticut.
Our Reader’s Queries
What are 2 former nicknames for Mississippi State other than Bulldogs?
The team has gone by the Aggies and the Maroons in the past. They play in Division I of the NCAA and the western division of the 14-member Southeastern Conference (SEC). The Bulldogs have won 28 conference championships, half of which were in the SEC.
What is the Mississippi State University team called?
Mississippi State Universitys athletic teams go by the name Bulldogs, a moniker earned and upheld through the years thanks to the determined and resilient performance of student-athletes sporting the Maroon and White.
Where can I watch Washington State Cougars men’s basketball vs Mississippi State Bulldogs men’s basketball?
Catch the Washington State vs. Mississippi State basketball game streaming live on ESPN+ today.
What conference is Mississippi State?
The Mississippi State Bulldogs are the official teams representing Mississippi State University in the state of Mississippi. The university is a founding member of the Southeastern Conference and participates in NCAA Division I.