Josh Hubbard Dominates with 26 Points in Mississippi State's Opener
- Mississippi State defeated West Georgia 95-60 in their basketball season opener.
- Josh Hubbard scored 26 points and Claudell Harris Jr. added 20 points.
- The Bulldogs' strong performance included 14 three-pointers and 31 points off turnovers.
On November 4, 2024, Mississippi State began its basketball season with a commanding 95-60 victory over West Georgia in Starkville, Mississippi. Josh Hubbard led the scoring with 26 points, while Claudell Harris Jr. contributed 20 points. Both players showcased their shooting skills by each sinking six 3-pointers, part of the team's impressive total of 14. The Bulldogs excelled overall, shooting 55% from the field and converting 31 points off 20 West Georgia turnovers. The game commenced with a quick dunk by KeShawn Murphy, establishing an early lead. Although West Georgia narrowed the gap to 24-21 in the first half, Mississippi State responded decisively. Harris's strong performance from beyond the arc, particularly in the final moments of the half, helped maintain an 11-point lead as they entered halftime. In the second half, the Bulldogs continued to dominate. After an initial West Georgia basket, Hubbard quickly retaliated with a 3-pointer that kept the lead safely in double figures. Releford was the leading scorer for West Georgia, achieving 16 points, but the team struggled against Mississippi State's offensive efficiency. The Bulldogs' performance not only marked a successful season opener but also set a positive tone for their campaign. Both Hubbard and Harris's contributions will be vital as they look to build on this momentum in future games.