Ethan Pulliam Excels in Dual Sports at Mississippi State

Athletes engaged in a baseball game at Mississippi State

News Summary

Ethan Pulliam, a standout freshman at Mississippi State University from Starkville, is making a mark in both baseball and football. With a .412 batting average in baseball and ranking as the No. 9 punter in football, Pulliam balances athletics and academics effectively. He shines in baseball with impressive performances, including his first collegiate home run. Pulliam’s dedication extends to his studies, maintaining a GPA above 3.8 while inspiring other athletes. His journey showcases his commitment to excelling in both sports while representing his community.

Starkville’s Own Ethan Pulliam Shines in Two-Sport Freshman Year at Mississippi State

In the bustling town of Starkville, there’s a name that’s making waves in the world of collegiate athletics—Ethan Pulliam. This talented freshman is embracing the challenge of juggling not one, but two sports at Mississippi State University. That’s right, Pulliam is not just a baseball player; he’s also a promising football player who is honing his skills as a punter.

A Star on the Rise

Graduating from Starkville High School, Pulliam made a name for himself as an All-State baseball player and an impressive punter. His journey has taken him from the local high school fields to the bright lights of college sports. Although he redshirted his first football season, he is now gearing up to make waves on the gridiron while simultaneously taking the baseball diamond by storm.

Twilight of a New Season

As of April 26, 2024, Pulliam is turning heads on the baseball team, boasting a remarkable batting average of .412. With seven hits under his belt and three multi-hit games recently, he has quickly become an essential part of the Mississippi State lineup. His first career start in baseball came against Alcorn State, where he shone bright with two base hits. But it didn’t stop there—during a recent SEC series against Auburn, Pulliam tallied his first two SEC base hits, including an RBI single that contributed to the team’s offensive momentum.

Making a Mark in Baseball

Pulliam’s knack for performance was further highlighted during a standout series against Arkansas. He racked up five hits, including his very first collegiate home run, and showcased an impressive three-RBI performance. The young athlete is proving that he can hold his own against some of the best competition in college baseball. These milestones have undoubtedly fueled his passion and determination to excel.

Football Aspirations

While he makes strides in baseball, Pulliam is also making headlines in football. Ranked as the No. 9 punter in the 2023 class according to Kohl’s rankings, his natural talent for the sport is evident. Pulliam started playing football as a sophomore in high school and quickly rose to the position of starting punter, thanks to his hard work and commitment to the game. His father, Chris Pulliam, has been a constant source of support, further motivating Ethan to pursue his dreams in both sports.

Balancing Act of Academics and Athletics

Pursuing two sports is no small feat, especially when coupled with the rigorous demands of college life. Pulliam manages a busy schedule with morning football practices, afternoon classes, and evening baseball team commitments. Not only is he thriving on the field, but he is also excelling in the classroom, having earned a spot on the President’s List with a GPA of 3.8 or higher. His dedication to academics and athletics exemplifies the spirit of a true student-athlete.

A Community’s Pride

Lifelong residents of Starkville, including Pulliam, hold a special place in their hearts for Mississippi State University. With his family’s roots in the community and his experiences as part of the local sports scene, he has become a beloved figure among fans and peers alike. Pulliam doesn’t just play for himself; he plays for his community and draws inspiration from his teammates, including noted players like Hunter Hines and Connor Hujsak. Together, they inspire one another and foster a culture of teamwork and growth.

Support from Coaches

The road to success has not been traveled alone—Pulliam credits the unwavering support from his coaches, who have encouraged him to embrace his multi-sport athletic career. This nurturing atmosphere has been pivotal in helping him adapt to collegiate sports while maintaining his passion for both football and baseball.

Looking Ahead

As Ethan Pulliam continues to make a mark at Mississippi State, his journey serves as an inspiration to many young athletes. The determination he has shown in mastering the art of balance between athletics and academics is commendable. With his impressive talent, hard work, and dedication, there’s no doubt that Pulliam is just getting started on what promises to be a thrilling collegiate sports career.