Howard leads No. 6 Mississippi State past Alabama 65-49

Another statement was made from the sixth ranked team in the nation, as Mississippi State blew by Alabama 65-49. Anriel Howard, who has been on fire all season, led the Bulldogs with 24 points, 15 in the first half. She is averaging 15.5 on the season, and has proven to be a key weapon. Howard went 9-12 from the field and added seven rebounds.

While her numbers were not as high, center Teaira McCowan did put up yet another double double with 12 points and 12 rebounds. Though she was not the primary force in this game, McCowan continues to make her presence felt down low. That said, she did have four fouls and if the Bulldogs wish to be successful going forward, McCowan must stay out of foul trouble.

Point guard Jazzmun Holmes continues to fill the stat line, as she posted 10 points, five rebounds, three assists, and two steals. But what is most impressive about Holmes as of late is her growth in limiting turnovers. She has developed into a true point guard with a multitude of weapons. With only one turnover yesterday, Holmes continues to be reliable on both ends of the floor.

All upperclassmen, Howard, McCowan, and Holmes showed why the Bulldogs should crack the top five. The three have been here before and continue to carry this team. Expect big things in a week when Mississippi State welcomes Tennessee to the Hump.