The Mississippi State Bulldogs’ basketball teams are approaching this weekend with contrasting fortunes as both the men’s and women’s teams engage in different challenges.
The men’s team will travel to Utah to battle the Utes late Saturday night. Following a tough 65-62 loss to San Francisco last week, the Bulldogs are eager to bounce back, but they face uncertainty regarding the availability of their star player, Josh Hubbard. The leading scorer, averaging 21.2 points per game and boasting an impressive total of 25 three-pointers, left the previous game after just two minutes due to an undisclosed injury. Coach Chris Jans expressed optimism about Hubbard’s recovery but acknowledged that no timeline has been set.
“Josh is obviously a hardworking kid… and I know our trainer, Bryce, is going to be working around the clock to try to get him back as soon as possible,” Jans said during a Wednesday media session. “But I don’t have a timetable.”
If Hubbard cannot play, the Bulldogs will rely on other players such as Jayden Epps, Ja’Borrie McGhee, Shawn Jones Jr., and Quincy Ballard to elevate their performance. Jans noted the value of preparation in anticipation of such situations, emphasizing that adjustments made during previous games have resulted in improved outcomes.
“It was a big punch in the gut… but that happens in sports. You got to be able to move on quickly and figure it out,” he remarked, reflecting on the team’s ability to adapt and overcome challenges.
The game against Utah marks an important moment for the Bulldogs. They currently hold a 4-5 record and lead the all-time series with the Utes 3-0, with their last meeting ending in a narrow 52-49 victory for Mississippi State in 2022.
Fans can catch the game on ESPNU at 9 p.m. from the Delta Center in Salt Lake City. This matchup serves as a crucial opportunity for the Bulldogs to regroup and showcase their resilience, regardless of the hurdles they face.