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No. 7 Mississippi State at Florida Women’s Basketball Preview

Riding a seven game win streak, the Bulldogs look to make it eight straight against the Gators.

MSU Athletics https://hailstate.com/galleries/?gallery=4970

While they will be without Chloe Bibby, the seventh ranked Bulldogs look to avenge their loss and make a statement in Gainesville.

Broadcast Information

The game is at 6:00 PM and can be watched on the SEC Network.

Records and Rankings

Mississippi State:

  • Record: 17-1 overall, 5-0 SEC
  • Ranking: 7 AP/ 6 Coaches

Florida:

  • Record: 5-13 overall, 1-4 SEC
  • Ranking: None

What to Watch For

Anriel Howard as a scoring threat

Howard, who has been a tone setter with plenty of experience can score at will. Averaging 15.2 points on the season, Howard has been a scoring threat from the get go. In addition, she is also averaging 7.8 rebounds. Look for Howard to get going early and put up a double double.

MSU Athletics https://hailstate.com/galleries/?gallery=4970

She fits right in and has benefited from head coach Vic Schaefer’s coaching style. Expect Howard to make crucial plays on both ends of the floor. In a losing effort, she put up 30 points and six rebounds at Oregon, as Howard should have a similar stat line tonight.

Teaira McCowan on the boards

While we all know that McCowan is the nation’s best down low, the only question is if she can outdo herself. Coming off an impressive season high 26 point 24 rebound performance against South Carolina, McCowan is sure to have her way in Gainesville. The 6’7” senior center is averaging a double double with 17.3 points and 13.9 rebounds per game, as McCowan is set to exceed her numbers in both categories.

MSU Athletics https://hailstate.com/galleries/?gallery=4970

Having said all of that, she also has seven blocks and three steals on the year. McCowan looks more comfortable and is locked in. Look for her to have a day against the Gators.

Who will step up in Chloe Bibby’s absence?

Bibby, who was on fire suffered a season ending knee injury, a crucial loss for Mississippi State. Fortunately for the Bulldogs, there is plenty of depth to fill that void. Bre’Amber Scott, who is quietly having herself a season should earn plenty of minutes. With her career high performance against Louisiana that included 21 points, Schaefer knows her capability of being a reliable weapon.

MSU Athletics https://hailstate.com/galleries/?gallery=4970

The sophomore guard is not afraid to step up and will have her chance tonight. She should fill the stat line and make an impact in Bibby’s absence. Expect Scott to have her moment against the Gators.

Prediction

Mississippi State should win big 88-61.