Both Florida and Mississippi State basketball have talented youngsters
It's not just the experienced big men that are worth watching in this game. In this matchup, be sure to keep an eye on the talented youngsters like the Bulldogs' freshman Josh Hubbard and Florida sophomore Riley Kugel, who could develop to be the future stars in this conference.
Hubbard has obviously been fun to watch for Mississippi State basketball fans as he's done well, scoring 14.2 points per game. But Kugel is a threat who could provide the Gators with necessary boosts as he scores 11.4 points and grabs 4.1 rebounds per game.
Both of these young players are essential to their respective teams.
A battle to elevate standing in the SEC
Generally speaking, early January conference matchups aren't always seen as vital to long term success over the course of a season, but this is a vital opportunity for both of these teams to boost their standings in the SEC and improve their overall resumes.
Mississippi State definitely needs to show that it can win on the road so getting a win in Gainesville over a Florida team with some real potential would help elevate the Bulldogs' standing in the SEC. MSU needs to take advantage of every possible opportunity available right now, and that includes this contest.