Mississippi State women’s basketball notched a major victory on Monday, toppling No. 9 LSU in an intense matchup at Humphrey Coliseum, securing a 77-73 win. This triumph represents a significant milestone for coach Sam Purcell, marking his most impressive win since taking the reins of the program in March 2022.
The Bulldogs, boasting a record of 17-5 overall and 4-3 in SEC play, showcased their prowess with standout performances from guards Jerkaila Jordan and Darrione Rogers. Jordan led the charge with 24 points, while Rogers contributed 19 points off the bench. Despite LSU’s formidable offensive efforts, including a strong showing from star forward Angel Reese with 20 points, Mississippi State managed to build a lead of up to nine points during the game.
The emergence of freshman guard Mjracle Sheppard off the bench proved pivotal for the Bulldogs. Sheppard’s impressive defensive display, particularly against LSU’s Hailey Van Lith, played a crucial role in disrupting the Tigers’ offense and bolstering Mississippi State’s success.
The freshman came to hoop. #HailState🐶 x @Mjracle1 pic.twitter.com/NZ4kwRQwcH
— Mississippi State Women’s Basketball (@HailStateWBK) January 30, 2024
However, turnovers and the absence of center Jessika Carter in the first half presented challenges for the Bulldogs. LSU capitalized on turnovers to gain momentum, but Mississippi State rallied to reclaim the lead after the first quarter.
Looking ahead, Mississippi State faces formidable road matchups against Kentucky and Texas A&M. These games offer opportunities for the Bulldogs to build on their momentum and solidify their position in the SEC standings.
Overall, the victory over LSU represents a significant achievement for Mississippi State women’s basketball, underscoring the team’s potential for success as they navigate the remainder of the season.
