Mississippi State Falls to Georgia Tech in Thrilling SEC/ACC Challenge Matchup
ATLANTA – In a nail-biting contest that featured 17 lead changes, Mississippi State saw its undefeated record come to an end with a 78-75 loss to Georgia Tech during the 2024 SEC/ACC Challenge at McCamish Pavilion on Wednesday night. The Bulldogs now hold a season record of 8-1.
Graduate guard Jerkaila Jordan led the offensive charge for Mississippi State, scoring 20 points on 10-of-19 shooting in 35 minutes. Meanwhile, fellow graduate player Eniya Russell registered a career high, contributing 18 points, nine assists, and nine rebounds in 30 minutes of play.
The game started favorably for the Bulldogs, who jumped to a 7-0 lead before Georgia Tech responded, ultimately overtaking Mississippi State 10-9. Russell’s back-to-back baskets helped the Bulldogs regain a 13-10 edge as the first quarter concluded with a score of 18-16 in their favor.
Continuing her strong performance, Russell propelled the Bulldogs to a 31-26 lead in the second quarter with 13 points over a 6-for-8 shooting stretch. By halftime, Mississippi State held a narrow 39-34 lead.
After halftime, Georgia Tech quickly retook the lead, but a pivotal three-pointer from Jordan allowed the Bulldogs to tie the game at 57 heading into the fourth quarter. The final period saw back-and-forth action, highlighted by key three-pointers from junior guard Debreasha Powe. However, with the score tied at 67, Georgia Tech seized control with a crucial 5-0 run, securing the win.
Mississippi State will look to bounce back on Sunday, December 8, at 5 p.m. CT as they face off against Chicago State.
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Photo credit hailstate.com