MSU’S run at the SEC Tournament comes to unexpected end with loss

GREENVILLE, S.C. – Mississippi State fell to Texas A&M 79-72 in the second round of the Southeastern Conference Women's Tournament on Thursday.

The loss moves the record for the Bulldogs to 20-10 for the year, and they will have to wait until March 12 to find out their postseason fate.

MSU came out strong in the first quarter, scoring 25 points and grabbing 14 rebounds to take a 25-19 lead into the second. The lead was short-lived, however, as State struggled in the second quarter shooting just 9% (1-for11) from the field and scoring just five points. The Bulldogs made a run late with a solid fourth quarter shooting 44% (7-for-16) from the field but ultimately fell short in their bid to advance to the SEC quarterfinals.

“When you look back on their year (Texas A&M), they didn't have Janiah Baker, but they stuck together,” MSU head coach Sam Purcell said. “We knew coming into this game that it was going to be an absolute battle for four quarters.

“I love the start from my team, we're up 25-19, but that second quarter was the game. We did some things that were uncharacteristic from us. We took too many quick shots, we quit talking in ball screens, and ultimately they punched us in the face. In the end, we fought like no other, but it just wasn't enough.”

Jessika Carter had a solid day for the Bulldogs despite playing just 20 minutes because of foul trouble. She scored 18 points and had five rebounds, the most points she has scored in an SEC Tournament

game. She scored 10 of her 18 points in the first quarter.

Jerkaila Jordan put up 12 points, eight rebounds and three assists for MSU. Jordan had a strong second half scoring nine of her 12 points. Debreasha Powe finished right beside Jordan with 12 points and seven rebounds. Powe's 12 points were her first double-digit game since Jan. 5 at Tennessee, where she put up 21 points. Anastasia Hayes continued to find her teammates as she dished out five assists for the day.

The Bulldogs out-rebounded the Aggies 39-29 and MSU knocked down 22 free throws for 81% from the line.

The women's NCAA Tournament Selection Show will air live on ESPN on March 12 at 7 p.m.