OXFORD, Miss. – The stage is set for the 271st meeting between the Ole Miss Rebels and the Mississippi State Bulldogs this Saturday, January 18, at 5 p.m. inside Humphrey Coliseum. With both teams currently ranked—Ole Miss at No. 21 and Mississippi State at No. 15—this matchup marks the first time the two rivals have faced off as ranked opponents, adding another chapter to one of college basketball's longest-standing rivalries.
The Ole Miss Rebels, led by head coach Chris Beard, bring their impressive 15-2 record and a perfect 4-0 start to SEC play. Beard, now in his second season at Ole Miss, has cultivated a formidable roster capable of competing at the highest levels. Meanwhile, Mississippi State, under the guidance of third-year head coach Chris Jans, boasts a strong 14-3 record but is coming off back-to-back losses, stifling their momentum as they enter this highly anticipated contest.
Dating back to their first game in 1914, this rivalry is the 12th most-played matchup across college basketball. Mississippi State currently holds the all-time series lead with 150 wins compared to Ole Miss's 120. Historically, the Bulldogs have been especially dominant on their home court, with an impressive 98-26 record against the Rebels when playing in Starkville.
The last time these teams met on February 21, 2024, Mississippi State emerged victorious with an 83-71 win. Despite Ole Miss holding a halftime lead, the Bulldogs surged past them, scoring 43 points in the second half to secure the win. Key performances from star players like Tolu Smith III, who tallied 24 points, highlight the explosive offensive potential Mississippi State can bring to the game.
Currently, both teams are experiencing notable highs. For Ole Miss, junior forward Malik Dia has been exceptional, leading the SEC with 10.3 rebounds per game and averaging 17.5 points over the first four conference games, establishing himself as one to watch. Dia's performance against Alabama on January 14, where he recorded 23 points and 19 rebounds, speaks volumes of his impact on the court.
M.D., also referred to as “Dia de los Muertos” for his stellar gameplay, not only leads his team but has positioned himself among the top players within the conference, threatening opposing defenses each game. Meanwhile, Mississippi State will look to Riley Kugel, who scored 21 points during their latest showdown and has proven to be clutch when needed, hitting free throws with seconds left to clinch tight victories.
The Rebels are touting one of the best defenses this season, demonstrating statistical prowess by leading the SEC with the fewest points allowed at 61.5 per game. Their ability to force 16 turnovers per game has been pivotal, positioning them third nationally in turnover margin, which has contributed immensely to their current form.
“Hurry up and get your muscle up, we out the plyometric,” quipped Beard, emphasizing the intense training his players have undergone to prepare for this challenging SEC schedule.
Notably, the Rebels achieved their first-ever win against No. 4 Alabama during their last outing, which highlights their readiness and potential to upset other top teams, including their rivals. Coach Beard’s solid strategy and players’ performances are definitely drawing attention as the SEC season tightens.
The Bulldogs, on the other hand, are searching for answers after their recent form. Following losses against Kentucky and Auburn—marking their first losing streak of the season—they need this game to regain their footing within the conference. They have been bolstered by their home advantage, and fans can expect to rally around their team at The Hump.
Throughout their storied rivalry, games have been known for being tightly contested, and this Saturday's contest promises to deliver electrifying moments. With nerves and intensity expected on both sides, it will be intriguing to see how Mississippi State's experienced roster will battle against the youthful exuberance of the Rebels.
Fans should be prepared for what could be one of the season's defining moments for each team. With Ole Miss striving to maintain their top-tier status and Mississippi State aiming to bounce back, the stakes couldn’t be higher for this thrilling matchup.
Upcoming games for both teams remain challenging, as they navigate through the competitive SEC schedule. This game not only impacts their standings but also sets the tone for the rivalry moving forward, for years to come.
The game will be broadcasted live on ESPN2, ensuring the energy of this fierce rivalry is available for fans everywhere. With playoff positions tightening, every possession counts as both teams vie for supremacy not only within the state of Mississippi but throughout the NCAA.