Hoops Central: RV/RV Mississippi State vs. #15/15 Lady Vols

Hoops Central: RV/RV Mississippi State vs. #15/15 Lady Vols

c This game promises to be a thriller, with both teams carrying significant expectations for the rest of the season. Mississippi State, currently receiving votes but unranked, will look to solidify its place in the SEC standings with a big upset. On the other hand, the Lady Vols, ranked #15 in both the AP and Coaches Polls, are looking to keep their momentum going and further their case for a top-tier postseason seed.

The Lady Vols have established themselves as one of the premier programs in the country under head coach Kellie Harper, and their performance this season has them poised for another deep run in the NCAA Tournament. Meanwhile, Mississippi State, under head coach Nikki McCray-Penson, is in the midst of rebuilding after losing some key players in recent seasons, but they’ve continued to demonstrate resilience and fight in SEC play.

This game has all the makings of a classic conference battle, with both teams playing for pride, position, and momentum. Let’s break down what makes this matchup so intriguing and the key elements that will decide the outcome.

Tennessee Lady Vols: A Look at the Team

The Tennessee Lady Vols have been a consistent force in women’s college basketball for decades. With a rich history of NCAA Tournament appearances, national championships, and a legacy of legendary players, Tennessee always carries a certain weight when it steps onto the court. In 2024, the Lady Vols are no different. Sitting at #15 in both the AP and Coaches Polls, the Lady Vols have proved themselves as one of the premier programs in the SEC and the nation.

The Lady Vols have relied on a balanced and dynamic roster that includes standout performances from key players. One of the most important figures is Jordan Horston, a senior guard who has been exceptional in nearly every area of the game. Horston’s ability to score, distribute, and defend makes her one of the most versatile players in the SEC. Her leadership will be crucial in this matchup, as she will need to set the tone and make the big plays for Tennessee to secure the win.

Another key player for the Lady Vols is Tamari Key, their dominant presence in the paint. The 6’6″ center has been a force on both ends of the floor, with her shot-blocking ability and rebounding skills giving Tennessee an edge in the frontcourt. Key’s presence in the middle is vital to Tennessee’s defensive strategy, as she can alter the game with her size and skill.

The Lady Vols are also deep, with players like Sara Puckett and Jacy Sheldon contributing on both ends of the floor. Puckett, in particular, has shown a knack for making timely shots and being a reliable option off the bench. Tennessee’s combination of inside strength and perimeter shooting has made them one of the most difficult teams to defend in the SEC this season.

Head coach Kellie Harper has instilled a tough, competitive mindset in her players, and her coaching style emphasizes aggressive defense, efficient offense, and a balanced attack. If Tennessee can stick to their game plan, they’ll have a good chance of taking down Mississippi State and keeping their season on track.

Mississippi State Bulldogs: A Look at the Team

Mississippi State, under head coach Nikki McCray-Penson, has experienced a period of transition over the past few seasons. The program lost some key players due to graduation and transfers, but McCray-Penson has kept the Bulldogs competitive in the SEC. Currently receiving votes in both the AP and Coaches Polls, Mississippi State has proven that it can hang with some of the best teams in the conference, despite not being ranked at the moment.

One of the biggest strengths of this Mississippi State team is its defense. The Bulldogs have been able to stifle opposing offenses with their aggressive, in-your-face defense that forces turnovers and creates fast-break opportunities. Mississippi State’s defensive prowess will be tested against Tennessee’s balanced attack, and the Bulldogs will need to bring their best effort on that end of the floor to keep the game close.

The Bulldogs’ offensive attack is led by Jessika Carter, a 6’5″ forward who is a double-double machine. Carter has the ability to dominate both inside and outside, and she’s one of the most talented players in the SEC. If she can stay out of foul trouble and continue to score efficiently, Carter will give Mississippi State a strong chance to upset the Lady Vols.

In addition to Carter, Myah Taylor is another key player for Mississippi State. As a senior guard, Taylor provides leadership and has the ability to score and distribute the ball effectively. Her experience will be crucial in keeping the Bulldogs’ offense organized and in making big plays down the stretch.

Mississippi State’s offense also benefits from players like Madison Hayes and Anastasia Hayes, who provide scoring depth and versatility on the wing. The Bulldogs need contributions from all of their key players to compete with a well-rounded Tennessee team, and they’ll rely on their defense to create offense and disrupt Tennessee’s flow.

Coach McCray-Penson has shown that she is capable of getting the most out of her players, and while Mississippi State might not be considered one of the elite teams in the SEC this season, they are still a dangerous squad that could pull off an upset with the right performance.

Key Matchups to Watch

1. Inside Play: Tamari Key vs. Jessika Carter

One of the most intriguing matchups in this game will be the battle in the paint between Tennessee’s Tamari Key and Mississippi State’s Jessika Carter. Key’s shot-blocking ability and presence in the middle are among the best in the SEC, but Carter is no slouch either. Carter’s versatility allows her to stretch the floor, but she is also capable of banging in the post and grabbing offensive rebounds.

The team that can control the paint will have a distinct advantage, both offensively and defensively. If Key can dominate on both ends and neutralize Carter’s scoring, Tennessee will have a much easier time building their lead. However, if Carter is able to get the better of Key and impose her will in the post, Mississippi State will have a significant opportunity to stay in the game.

2. Guard Play: Jordan Horston vs. Myah Taylor

In a game where both teams feature talented bigs, the guard play will also be a critical factor in determining the outcome. For Tennessee, Jordan Horston is the team’s leader and will need to orchestrate the offense efficiently while also contributing as a scorer. Her ability to distribute the ball, set up her teammates, and knock down clutch shots will be pivotal.

On the other side, Myah Taylor will be tasked with running the offense for Mississippi State. Taylor has been a steadying force for the Bulldogs, and her ability to manage the game, get into the paint, and make key plays will be important for Mississippi State’s chances of keeping pace with the Lady Vols. If Taylor can disrupt Tennessee’s rhythm and keep the Bulldogs in control of the tempo, Mississippi State will be able to stay competitive throughout the game.

3. Defensive Intensity: Mississippi State’s Defense vs. Tennessee’s Offense

Mississippi State’s defense is one of the team’s strongest assets, and they will need to bring their A-game against a high-powered Tennessee offense. The Lady Vols are capable of scoring in a variety of ways, and they have the depth to challenge Mississippi State on both the inside and the perimeter. The Bulldogs will need to be aggressive and force turnovers while also preventing Tennessee from getting second-chance opportunities off missed shots.

Tennessee’s offense, meanwhile, will look to take advantage of Mississippi State’s defense. If the Lady Vols can move the ball effectively, get open looks from beyond the arc, and finish strong at the rim, they will be able to break down the Bulldogs’ defensive schemes. Tennessee’s ball movement and shot selection will be key in creating a high-scoring affair in their favor.

The Stakes: SEC and NCAA Tournament Implications

For both teams, this game holds substantial weight in the broader SEC standings and NCAA Tournament picture. For the Lady Vols, a win would help maintain their status as one of the top teams in the conference and keep their ranking intact as they prepare for the postseason. Tennessee is already a strong contender for a top-four seed in the NCAA Tournament, and victories in games like this will only bolster their case.

For Mississippi State, this game is about proving that they belong among the SEC’s elite. With a solid performance and a potential upset win, the Bulldogs could not only improve their standing in the SEC but also boost their resume for NCAA Tournament consideration. A victory over a ranked team like Tennessee would give Mississippi State a significant boost in their quest for a postseason berth.

What to Expect on Game Day

Expect a high-energy game with intense defense, physical play, and plenty of momentum swings. Tennessee will likely come out firing on all cylinders, looking to establish an early lead behind the leadership of Jordan Horston and the inside presence of Tamari Key. However, Mississippi State will not back down easily. Jessika Carter and Myah Taylor will look to keep the game close and create opportunities for their team to capitalize on mistakes.

Ultimately, the outcome of this game will depend on which team can execute its game plan more effectively. If Tennessee can control the inside game and dictate the tempo, they will likely come away with a victory. However, if Mississippi State can disrupt Tennessee’s offense and create chaos with their defense, an upset is very much within reach.