Why coach McCray-Penson can get the best of her former team next season

With McCray-Penson at helm, Mississippi State will be in full force and ready to make a significant run.

Though South Carolina lost many key pieces, they will be fully reloaded. But the Bulldogs will have a counterpunch that includes a combination of experience and talent. A former player, McCray-Penson can relate to and galvanize the next year’s squad.

While Staley is the ultimate player’s coach, McCray-Penson has learned from one of the best. Both teams will match up evenly, as McCray-Penson and Staley each have a three headed monster at their disposal. Look for Bulldogs Myah Taylor, Rickea Jackson, and Jessika Carter along with Gamecocks Zia Cooke, Brea Beal, and Aliyah Boston to take up the highlight real come next year.

The Bulldogs went 0-2 against the Gamecocks last season, the first matchup being an 81-79 heartbreaker in Columbia. Expect McCray-Penson and company to be ready and give the Gamecocks a run for their money. In at least one matchup, Penson is sure to catch Staley off guard and win what has become a prime rivalry in women’s basketball.

Hail State!