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Mississippi State vs Oklahoma Women’s Basketball: Odds, Prediction, and Analysis

The Oklahoma Sooners are on a roll, boasting a five-game road win streak. They will face the Mississippi State Bulldogs on January 9, 2025, at Humphrey Coliseum in Starkville, Mississippi. This matchup promises to be an exciting clash of titans, with both teams showcasing impressive records and standout players. As the Sooners aim to extend their winning streak, the Bulldogs will be looking to bounce back from a tough loss against South Carolina.

Oklahoma Sooners: A Team on a Hot Streak

The Oklahoma Sooners come into this game with a stellar 13-2 record, riding high on a five-game road win streak. Their latest victory was a nail-biting 87-86 win against Tennessee, where Payton Verhulst and Raegan Beers led the charge. Verhulst contributed 16 points, shooting 33.33% from the field and 4-11 from beyond the arc. Meanwhile, Beers added 13 points and 8 rebounds, shooting an impressive 85.71% from the field.

Offensive Prowess

The Sooners have been a scoring machine this season, putting up an average of 90.1 points per game, ranking fifth in college basketball. This offensive firepower is a significant factor in their +393 scoring differential, as they outscore opponents by 26.2 points per game. Key players like Payton Verhulst and Raegan Beers have been instrumental in maintaining this high-scoring tempo.

  • Payton Verhulst: 16 points per game, 33.33% FG, 4-11 3PT
  • Raegan Beers: 17.1 points per game, 85.71% FG

Defensive Challenges

Despite their offensive dominance, the Sooners have shown some vulnerability on the defensive end. They are allowing 63.9 points per game, which ranks 180th in college basketball. This could be a potential area of concern as they face a well-rounded Mississippi State team.

Mississippi State Bulldogs: Seeking Redemption

The Mississippi State Bulldogs, with a 13-3 record, are looking to bounce back from a 95-68 loss to South Carolina. In that game, Jerkaila Jordan was a standout performer, scoring 24 points, grabbing six rebounds, and making two steals. Destiney McPhaul also contributed with 14 points. The Bulldogs have been outscoring their opponents by 20.6 points per game, thanks to their balanced offensive and defensive play.

Balanced Attack

Mississippi State has been effective on both ends of the court, scoring 77.6 points per game and allowing just 57.0 points per game. This balanced approach has given them a +329 scoring differential. Jerkaila Jordan has been the team’s top scorer, averaging 15.3 points per game, ranking 161st in the country.

  • Jerkaila Jordan: 15.3 points per game
  • Destiney McPhaul: Key contributor with consistent scoring

Defensive Strength

The Bulldogs’ defense has been a cornerstone of their success, allowing only 57.0 points per game, ranking 50th in college basketball. This stout defense will be crucial in their effort to contain Oklahoma’s high-powered offense.

Key Matchups to Watch

As these two teams clash, several key matchups will be pivotal in determining the outcome of the game. The battle between Oklahoma’s Payton Verhulst and Mississippi State’s Jerkaila Jordan will be one to watch. Both players are their team’s leading scorers and will play crucial roles in their respective team’s success.

Payton Verhulst vs. Jerkaila Jordan

Verhulst’s ability to score from beyond the arc and Jordan’s all-around offensive prowess will be on full display. The player who can impose their will on the game will likely give their team the edge.

Raegan Beers vs. Mississippi State’s Defense

Beers’ efficiency in the paint will be tested against Mississippi State’s stout defense. Her ability to score efficiently and grab rebounds will be crucial for Oklahoma to maintain their offensive rhythm.

Prediction and Final Thoughts

According to the latest predictions, Oklahoma is favored to win this game with a predicted score of 76-68. The Sooners’ high-scoring offense is expected to be the deciding factor, despite Mississippi State’s strong defensive capabilities.

However, the Bulldogs should not be underestimated. Their balanced attack and solid defense make them a formidable opponent, capable of pulling off an upset if they can effectively contain Oklahoma’s offensive threats.

Factors to Consider

  • Oklahoma’s Offensive Firepower: Can they maintain their high-scoring pace?
  • Mississippi State’s Defense: Will they be able to stifle Oklahoma’s scorers?
  • Key Player Performances: Which team’s stars will shine brightest?

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