News Summary
The Mississippi State Bulldogs men’s basketball team is gearing up for the upcoming season, bolstered by several key player transfers. Freshman Amier Ali highlights the team’s energized practice environment, increased competition, and focus on chemistry and performance. Other recent recruits have also expressed their commitment to improving the Bulldogs’ dynamics. As the team adapts to new strategies and prepares for November’s season kickoff, they are optimistic about their chances following a previous NCAA Tournament appearance.
Starkville, Mississippi – The Mississippi State Bulldogs men’s basketball team is ramping up their preparations for the upcoming season following a wave of new player transfers aimed at strengthening the team’s dynamics and winning culture. Freshman Amier Ali, a sophomore transfer from Arizona State, is among the new recruits, and he is set to contribute after a challenging season for his previous team, which finished with a 13-20 record.
Ali emphasizes the energy and intensity of practices in Starkville, noting that players are motivated by both their teammates and the coaching staff. His agreement to join the Bulldogs coincides with a previous season in which Mississippi State recorded a strong 21-13, culminating in a trip to the NCAA Tournament. This success has made the program attractive to new talent.
A primary focus for Ali is winning. He has expressed a desire to not only build chemistry with his new teammates but also to enhance his own individual performance. Ali is joined in this commitment by other recent transfers including Jayden Epps from Georgetown, Ja’Borri McGhee from UAB, Quincy Ballard from Wichita State, and Brandon Walker from Montana State, all of whom attended a recent press conference to share insights about their transition to Mississippi State.
Walker highlighted the welcoming, family-like environment fostered within the team, noting the effectiveness of the coaching staff’s recruiting efforts, which included personal visits from coaches. This inclusive atmosphere was a significant factor for many of the new players in deciding to join the Bulldogs.
As Mississippi State lost ten players to the transfer portal last season, filling the roster with skilled players was essential. Epps and McGhee were specifically recruited to enhance the backcourt alongside All-SEC guard Josh Hubbard, contributing diverse skill sets that will improve the team’s overall performance.
Both Epps and McGhee conveyed their eagerness to compete and improve collectively through rigorous practice sessions. Additionally, Ballard noted a new running regimen aimed at enhancing fitness in preparation for the upcoming season. This focus on conditioning reflects the team’s commitment to on-court performance.
According to recruiting rankings, Mississippi State is celebrating a noteworthy achievement with the No. 44-ranked transfer class and a No. 16-ranked freshman class as per 247Sports. The incoming freshmen have impressed the transfers, with Ali specifically praising King Grace for his defensive skills and Jamarion Davis-Fleming for his offensive capabilities.
The integration of these new players is occurring not just through practice, but also through bonding activities that foster team chemistry. The balance of experience among the transfers paired with the new talents creates a competitive environment that challenges everyone to elevate their game.
As they prepare for the season’s kickoff in November, the Bulldogs are focused on adapting to new playing styles and defensive concepts introduced by head coach Chris Jans. These strategies, coupled with the infusion of new talent, are expected to enhance Mississippi State’s competitive edge in the upcoming basketball season.
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Additional Resources
- Clarion Ledger: Mississippi State Football Predictions 2025
- Maroon and White Nation: Brenen Thompson Embraces Key Role at Mississippi State
- On3: Media Days Buzz on Transfer Heavy Roster in Starkville
- 247Sports: NCAA Transfer Portal Mississippi State
- Sports Illustrated: Three Transfers Poised for Breakout Season at Mississippi State
- Wikipedia: Mississippi State Bulldogs
- Google Search: Mississippi State University basketball
- Google Scholar: Mississippi State basketball transfers
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mississippi State University
- Google News: Mississippi State Bulldogs
Author: STAFF HERE STARKVILLE WRITER
The STARKVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREstarkville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Starkville, Oktibbeha County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Cotton District Arts Festival, Bulldog Bash, and Mississippi State University homecoming celebrations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Starkville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Mississippi State University Extension Service, plus leading businesses in education and agriculture that power the local economy such as Mississippi State University and Starkville Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.
