Mississippi State women’s basketball comes up short in Fayetteville, falls to No. 18 Arkansas 86-80

Though the game resulted in a loss for the Bulldogs, star point guard Myah Taylor emerged into superstardom against the Razorbacks with a performance for the ages.

Taylor could not be stopped, as she posted a season-high 22 points. She added six boards and seven assists. But she was outdueled by star Razorback guard Destiny Slocum who carried Arkansas to their statement win with a game-high 26 points of her own.

Fellow guard Aliyah Matharu dropped 17 crucial points. Forwards Rickea Jackson and Jessika Carter were in double-figures and combined for 25. But it was simply not enough, as the Bulldogs got little to no help off the bench.

Chelsea Dungee’s 22 points were vital, as she is known to show up in big moments. She and Slocum are virtually unstoppable when on a scoring roll.

Following last night’s loss, there are some positive signs going forward. Taylor looks better than she ever has on the offensive end and Aliyah Matharu continues to impress as a scoring weapon.

It is also important to remember that this is coach Nikki McCray-Penson’s first year in Starkville and it will take time for this group to gel. Look for the Bulldogs to learn from this loss and come out firing, as they head to Oxford for a Sunday showdown with the rival Rebels.

Hail State!