Mississippi State University's men's basketball team kicked off their highly anticipated season with a resounding 95-60 victory over West Georgia at The Hump. The win served as an impressive icebreaker for the Bulldogs, who are poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming season.

Unleashing the Bulldogs' Firepower

A Balanced Scoring Attack

The Bulldogs showcased their depth and versatility, with a dozen different players finding the scoresheet. While the team's three biggest stars – Hubbard, Harris, and Murphy – led the charge, the rotational players also had the opportunity to gel as a unit, providing a glimpse of the team's potential.

Hubbard's Sizzling Sophomore Debut

Sophomore sensation Josh Hubbard wasted no time in picking up where he left off, delivering a game-high 25 points in just under 26 minutes of action. Hubbard's performance was nothing short of dominant, as he shot an impressive 10-of-13 from the field and a sizzling 6-of-7 from beyond the arc.

Harris' Electrifying Debut in Starkville

Veteran guard Claudell Harris Jr. made a memorable debut in Starkville, draining six three-pointers and scoring 20 points. His performance suggests that he and Hubbard could form one of the Southeastern Conference's top backcourt duos this season.

Murphy's Versatile Contributions

While Hubbard and Harris did the bulk of the scoring, forward Tolu Murphy showcased his well-rounded game, hitting 3-of-6 shots while leading the team in rebounds (7), assists (4), and blocks (2). Murphy's ability to impact the game in multiple facets will be crucial as he transitions into a larger role this season.

Bench Depth and Rotational Opportunities

The lopsided nature of the victory allowed head coach Chris Jans to empty his bench, providing valuable playing time for the Bulldogs' rotational players. This early-season opportunity to mesh as a unit will undoubtedly pay dividends as the season progresses.

Laying the Foundation for a Promising Season

The Bulldogs' dominant performance against West Georgia serves as an encouraging start to the season, setting the stage for high expectations and a promising campaign ahead. With the team's talented core and the continued development of the supporting cast, Mississippi State appears poised to make a significant impact in the SEC and beyond.