Mississippi State women's basketball has gotten off to a strong start to the season. The Bulldogs have wrapped-up non-conference play with a 13-1 record, their best start since the 2018-2019 season.
But now is when things start to get difficult. SEC play is set to begin, and as always, the SEC is loaded with some of the nation's very best teams. Right off the bat, the Bulldogs will go on the road to face the #16 Kentucky Wildcats. The Wildcats are off to an 11-1 start and own good wins against Louisville and Illinois.
This will be a big test for Mississippi State to tipoff conference play. Here's how you can watch State take on Kentucky Thursday night...
Game time and TV channel for Mississippi State women's basketball vs Kentucky Wildcats
It will be an evening tip for women's basketball Thursday night. State is set to tipoff against the Cats at 6:00 PM CT. Bulldog fans will once again have to turn to streaming to watch State in action. Their matchup with Kentucky will be broadcast exclusively through SEC Network+, which can be accessed through the ESPN app with one's TV provider information.
The Kentucky Wildcats play great defense and have a strong starting five
State has been a great defensive team so far, and Kentucky is right there with them. Despite a tough schedule, the Cats have held their opponents to 57 PPG, 34% shooting, and 25% from three. And while they themselves aren't the best shooting team, their starting five all average double-figures. They're solid rebounding, though they don't dominate the boards, but they make sure to take care of the basketball and convert when they get to the free throw line.
Score prediction for Mississippi State women's basketball at the Kentucky Wildcats
I expect a close, lower scoring game in Lexington with two good defenses taking the floor. This is a true coinflip, but I like State's edge in rebounding and shooting to be the difference. If they can avoid the costly turnovers, they'll begin SEC play 1-0.
Mississippi State wins 61-58