Mississippi State Opens With 106-88 Win Over Tennessee Tech

Mississippi State began its 2026-27 season with a 106-88 home victory over Tennessee Tech on November 2. The Bulldogs spread the scoring across the lineup, with five players reaching double figures and their bench supplying 48 points.

Josh Hubbard paced Mississippi State with 25 points and nine assists. He made seven of 11 shots, including three three-pointers. Reserve King Grace added 23 points and eight rebounds in 23 minutes, making four three-pointers.

Tajuan Simpkins logged 15 points and five assists; Thomas Bassong recorded 14 points plus six boards, while RJ Johnson put up 12 points. The team’s balanced attack offered an encouraging start for coach Chris Jans, with players sharing the ball and contributing from the bench.

There were also areas for the Bulldogs to address: they gave up 51 points after halftime and turned the ball over 15 times. Mississippi State had been projected 15th in the SEC in preseason forecasts, but its opening performance showed several players capable of scoring.

The Bulldogs are scheduled to welcome Northwestern State on November 5, before facing Jackson State on November 9. Each contest is slated for 6:30 p.m.