The Ole Miss Men’s Basketball team is looking to build off of their first-ever win at College Station as
they face off against the Mississippi State Bulldogs on Tuesday, Jan. 30.
There are a few key points that the Rebels need to focus on to win this game, especially since MSU is
looking to bounce back after a rough loss to Auburn last Saturday, Jan. 27.
Murrell and Flanigan need to be on point
Guard Matthew Murrell and guard Allen Flanigan have had their off-moments this season. Both players are ranked one and two in the team for scoring, but it is clear when watching the two play that their performance can be streaky from game to game. Guard Jaylen Murray tallied 16 points and hit a clutch three to push the Rebels past Texas A&M, which was crucial on a night where both Murrell and Flanigan struggled on the field. While any one of the Rebel’s talented players could have a big game, they desperately need their star scorers to put points on the board during Tuesday’s game.
Trust in Sharp
Forward Jamarion Sharp has been incredible this year on the defensive side of the ball. Averaging nearly three blocks and five rebounds per game, he has been instrumental in much of the team’s success this year. Anchoring a very good Rebel defense, Sharp has the ability to shut down the paint and force opponents into difficult shots. If things get tough Tuesday night, the Rebels must rely on Sharp to keep them in the game.
Let Cisse go to work in the post
Forward Moussa Cisse has been dominating the post, and it does not look like he is slowing down anytime soon. He was only inserted into the starting lineup recently, and it seems to have been a brilliant move by Head Coach Chris Beard. It would be wise to let the seven-foot forward continue his supremacy down low, as it could be a huge factor in determining this game.
Limit Smith and Hubbard
Forward Tolu Smith is coming off of an injury, but he is still Mississippi State’s highest scorer with an average of 17 points in eight games. Guard Josh Hubbard has played all season, and his stats are also respectable. He averages 15 points per game, albeit with poor efficiency, but has nonetheless been an incredible player for the Bulldogs. Limiting open looks for these players and making them work to score will be key on the Rebel’s path to victory.
Home Court Advantage
The Rebels are currently undefeated at The Pavillion, and that is in part due to the fans and student section. The crowd is set to be one of the largest of the year, in no small part due to this being a heated rivalry matchup. While this game will be decided on the court, the fans will have to show up and show out in order to push the Rebels over the winning edge.
