On January 13, 2026, the No. 18 Alabama Crimson Tide, currently with an 11-5 overall record and 1-2 in SEC play, will face off against the Mississippi State Bulldogs, who hold a 10-6 record and are 2-1 in the conference. The matchup is set for a 9 p.m. ET start at Humphrey Coliseum in Starkville, Mississippi, and will be broadcast on the SEC Network.
Alabama is coming off two consecutive losses, including a high-scoring 92-88 defeat against Texas, failing to cover the spread as an 11.5-point favorite. Guard Labaron Philon Jr. was a standout in that game, leading the team with 21 points while the Crimson Tide found themselves trailing by 13 at one point.
On the other hand, Mississippi State recently saw their six-game winning streak come to an end with a hefty 92-68 loss to Kentucky, where they also failed to cover as a 10.5-point dog. Despite the setback, guard Josh Hubbard managed to score 20 points, with forward Achor Achor contributing a double-double of 13 points and 11 rebounds.
BetMGM Sportsbook has set the odds for the game, showing Alabama as the favorite at a -200 moneyline, meaning a $200 bet would win $100. Mississippi State is listed at +165, indicating a $100 bet would yield a $165 profit. The spread is at Alabama -4.5, with both teams lined at -110. The over/under is set at 173.5 points.
In terms of predictions, a close contest is anticipated, with many experts forecasting a Mississippi State win at 91-86, offering value in the moneyline for the home team. The Bulldogs have proven strong at home this season, with a 7-1 record, and they are expected to bounce back from their recent loss against Kentucky.
Additionally, considering both teams’ offensive capabilities, a wager on the over of 173.5 points is suggested. Alabama has consistently scored high, averaging 93.5 points per game this season, while Mississippi State has also maintained a robust offensive pace, averaging 80 points per game. Both teams’ scoring records this season show a strong likelihood of surpassing the total points line.
As college basketball fans eagerly anticipate this SEC showdown, both teams will be looking to reclaim momentum and solidify their standings in the conference.