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Mississippi State Bulldogs Prepare to Host Tennessee Volunteers
Head coach Chris Jans discusses team's struggles, injuries, and upcoming matchup against SEC rival Tennessee
Published on Feb. 9, 2026
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The Mississippi State Bulldogs have struggled at home in SEC play this season, and their task doesn't get any easier as they prepare to host the Tennessee Volunteers on Wednesday. Head coach Chris Jans addressed the team's challenges, including their disappointing non-conference performance and recent injuries, while also previewing the matchup against the physical, deliberate Tennessee squad led by veteran coach Rick Barnes.
Why it matters
Mississippi State has fallen well short of preseason expectations, putting themselves in a difficult position to make the NCAA Tournament after three straight appearances. The Bulldogs need to find a way to turn things around at home against a tough Tennessee team to keep their postseason hopes alive.
The details
Jans acknowledged that the Bulldogs have not lived up to their own standards, both in non-conference play and in SEC action so far. He cited their struggles with turnovers and defensive lapses as key factors in recent losses. The coach also provided updates on injuries, noting that freshman Cameren Paul will redshirt after tearing his Achilles, while Sergej Macura is expected to return to practice after suffering a hand injury.
- The Bulldogs (11-12 overall, 3-7 in the SEC) will host Tennessee (16-7, 6-4) on Wednesday, February 15th at 8 p.m.
The players
Chris Jans
The head coach of the Mississippi State Bulldogs men's basketball team.
Rick Barnes
The head coach of the Tennessee Volunteers men's basketball team, known for his physical, deliberate style of play.
Jamarion Davis-Fleming
A freshman forward for the Mississippi State Bulldogs, praised by Jans for his defensive abilities and potential to develop offensively.
Achor Achor
A player for the Mississippi State Bulldogs who has shown improvement offensively, according to Jans.
Sergej Macura
A player for the Mississippi State Bulldogs who recently suffered a hand injury but is expected to return to practice.
What they’re saying
“We put ourselves in a hole going into SEC play. Certainly, we had that mini-run to start where hey, we can fight our way back into where we want to be. Then it went in the wrong direction and it's been a struggle since then.”
— Chris Jans, Head Coach (on3.com)
“When you turn the ball over in this league in a live-ball situation, you usually pay for it. You do it against a team like Arkansas and you pay dearly for it.”
— Chris Jans, Head Coach (on3.com)
“It's another typical Rick Barnes' team where they are ultra-physical in every aspect of the game. When you play them you better be ready for a fist fight.”
— Chris Jans, Head Coach (on3.com)
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.
