Mississippi State sweeps Ole Miss, secures NCAA Tournament spot

The Mississippi State University men’s basketball team secured an 81-71 victory over Ole Miss, completing a season sweep against their rivals. Despite Ole Miss being ranked No. 19 and favored to win, Mississippi State dominated the game, particularly in rebounding and defense, holding the Rebels to just 38% shooting. Head coach Chris Jans expressed initial concerns about the matchup but praised his team's intensity, especially in their 3-point defense. The Bulldogs led by as much as 19 points in the second half, showcasing depth with contributions from several players, including RJ Melendez, who scored 17 points. This win reflects a strong turnaround for Mississippi State amidst a competitive conference landscape. The Bulldogs' victory not only cements their position in the rankings but also boosts morale as they head into the remainder of the season.