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While this year’s tournament was unfortunately cancelled, Mississippi State looks to make a statement next year, this time with a well experienced starting five.
Point Guard: Myah Taylor
As Vic Schaefer handed her the reigns at the point, Taylor is coming off an impressive sophomore campaign. A star on both ends of the floor, Taylor accumulated 151 assists and 63 steals on the year. Though she averaged just 5.6 points, look for Taylor to improve as a scorer.
Shooting Guard: Xaria Wiggins
At 6-foot-1, Wiggins can create mismatches and take advantage. While she was an integral component of the Bulldogs second unit, expect Wiggins to start next season. Like Taylor, Wiggins excels on the defensive end. That said, Wiggins is a sniper from distance.
Small Forward: Rickea Jackson
Though she will only be a sophomore, Jackson was a freshman phenom, having led the team in scoring with an average of 15.1 points per game. As seen in the SEC tournament, Jackson is improving in the paint and as a rebounder. Expect Schaefer to play Jackson at both small and power forward. Jackson scored a season high 34 points at Auburn along with 23 against LSU and 29 against Kentucky.
Power Forward: Chloe Bibby
Though Bibby did not have her best season scoring wise, she is a lethal paint presence. Like Wiggins, Bibby stands at 6-foot-1. Bibby finished the year with 173 rebounds. Also formidable defensively, she posted 18 blocks. Bibby should have an immediate impact at power forward while returning to form as a scorer.
Center Jessika Carter
At 6-foot-5, Carter has become a versatile center, having recorded 11 double-doubles. Carter averaged 13 points and 8.7 rebounds per game. While Carter may split time with fellow center Yemiyah Morris, Carter should get the majority of minutes.
With a starting five that combines experience and talent, the Bulldogs will be running on all cylinders come next season.
Hail State!