As the Mississippi State Bulldogs (3-3) gear up for a challenging matchup against the unbeaten SMU Mustangs (7-0) on Friday at 6 p.m. in Humphrey Coliseum, questions surrounding the team’s lineup and performance remain at the forefront. Head coach Chris Jans engaged with the media on Wednesday to address these uncertainties and his expectations for the forthcoming game.
When asked about the clarity of team rotations, Jans candidly admitted, “Unfortunately, no.” He expressed that the team is still figuring out who fits best in certain positions, with a few spots yet to be solidified. This lack of consistency, he noted, has hindered the determination of playing time and roles among the athletes.
Reflecting on the recent victory against New Orleans, Jans emphasized the importance of winning despite not meeting their set expectations. He acknowledged the hard work required to achieve success on the court and encouraged his players to focus on process rather than outcomes. “We got to get our head down and just work and get better,” he said, urging his team to concentrate on continuous improvement on both physical and mental levels.
On the upcoming clash with SMU, Jans stressed the challenge posed by their high-scoring offense and ability to create turnovers. He described SMU as a cohesive unit boasting a mix of experienced veterans and new additions, stating they run effective plays with excellent court spacing. Jans recognizes that the Bulldogs must learn from past encounters and develop their game plan accordingly.
Jans also noted that while SMU has not played on the road yet this season, this situation might bolster their confidence rather than hinder their growth. He pointed out that every team’s scheduling is unique, and SMU has successfully navigated their home games thus far, positioning themselves for a crucial road test.
In terms of player updates, Jans shared that Jayden Epps and Sergej Macura have yet to return to practice but remained hopeful for their recovery. He also expressed a desire to help Achor Achor regain his confidence on the court, indicating that ongoing support and encouragement will be vital for the team as they strive to unlock their full potential.
Additionally, Jans showed enthusiasm towards Amier Ali, who has recently stepped up his performance. The coach praised Ali’s consistent work ethic and energy, indicating that his progressing contributions could influence the team’s rotation moving forward.
As the Bulldogs prepare to face SMU, the atmosphere is one of cautious optimism. With efforts focused on improvement and solidifying team dynamics, there is hope that Mississippi State can leverage their experience and determination to translate potential into on-court success against a formidable opponent. The upcoming game will be a crucial opportunity for the Bulldogs to showcase their capabilities and grow as a unit.