Can Mississippi State Bulldogs Rebound After Narrow Defeat to Crimson Tide?

The Mississippi State Bulldogs faced a challenging contest against the Crimson Tide, ending in a close 82-74 outcome. The Bulldogs now stand with an even record, while the Crimson Tide improved their performance on the court.

In a game that saw nine lead changes and was tied three times, the Bulldogs showcased resilience at Humphrey Coliseum in Starkville. Despite trailing at halftime with 38 points to Alabama's 40, they fought hard to keep pace throughout the second half. Ultimately, they fell short by eight points as Alabama closed out with an additional 42 points after intermission compared to Mississippi State's 36.

The Bulldogs' effort was evident across various aspects of their game. They amassed a total of 37 rebounds and blocked seven shots from their opponents. Their defense also managed to steal possession seven times during play. On offense, they were able to assist on twelve occasions and scored six fast break points.

Mississippi State excelled in scoring within the paint with a total of 34 points but struggled from the free-throw line, making only 56 percent of their attempts. They made nineteen two-point field goals out of forty-four attempts (43 percent) and were slightly more efficient from beyond the arc hitting seven out of seventeen three-point attempts (41 percent). However, turnovers proved costly for them as they gave up possession twelve times which translated into only six points off turnovers for themselves.

On Alabama's side, they showed strong execution in fast-break situations scoring eighteen fast break points and capitalized on turnovers by scoring another eighteen points off them. Their shooting accuracy from two-point range matched that of Mississippi State at fifty percent but edged ahead in overall field goal percentage at forty-three percent making twenty-five successful shots out of fifty-eight attempts.

Alabama also demonstrated proficiency from the free-throw line converting eighty-five percent of their twenty-six free throws attempted into successful scores. Moreover, they collected thirty-six rebounds throughout the game including ten offensive boards which contributed to thirteen second-chance points.

Looking ahead for Mississippi State Bulldogs fans, attention turns toward an away game against Kentucky Wildcats scheduled for January 17th at Rupp Arena in Lexington. This upcoming matchup will be broadcasted nationally on ESPN2 channel number two hundred nine starting at 7:00 PM Eastern Time where fans can tune in for live coverage.