Alabama
Miss State
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (01/24/2026) — The Alabama Crimson Tide secured a crucial Southeastern Conference victory Saturday, outlasting the Mississippi State Bulldogs 85-78 in a hard-fought contest at Coleman Coliseum. The game, which featured 18 lead changes and 10 ties, was a back-and-forth affair until the Crimson Tide pulled away late in the fourth quarter.
How It Happened
Alabama jumped out to an early 8-0 lead, but Mississippi State quickly responded and battled back to make it a tight contest. The Crimson Tide's offense was potent, shooting 52% from the field and an impressive 62% from three-point range. Five Alabama players scored in double figures, showcasing a balanced attack that was difficult for the Bulldogs to contain. Mississippi State stayed in the game by controlling the boards, outrebounding Alabama 34-30, and capitalizing on their opportunities in the paint. The Bulldogs shot a respectable 45% from the field but struggled from beyond the arc, hitting only 25% of their three-point attempts.
A key stretch for Mississippi State came near the end of the third quarter when they used a 12-1 run to take the lead. However, Alabama's offense, which held the lead for over 22 minutes of the game, proved to be too much in the final frame.
Turning Point
The game's pivotal moments occurred in the fourth quarter. After a six-minute scoring drought by Mississippi State, Alabama's Karly Weathers took over, scoring 11 of her 13 points in the final period. A late three-pointer by a wide-open Weathers proved to be the dagger, extending the Crimson Tide's lead for good and sealing the victory.
Star of the Game
Jessica Timmons was the undisputed star for the Alabama Crimson Tide, pouring in a career-high 28 points. She was incredibly efficient, shooting 3-for-6 from three-point range and a perfect 11-for-11 from the free-throw line. Timmons was one of five Alabama players in double figures, joined by Diana Collins (15 points), Karly Weathers (13 points), Ace Austin (10 points), and Naomi Jones (10 points).
For the Mississippi State Bulldogs, Favour Nwaedozi led the scoring with 19 points and added seven rebounds. Madison Francis had a strong all-around game with 16 points, eight rebounds, and seven steals, while Jaylah Lampley contributed 14 points off the bench.
What It Means
The victory gives the Alabama Crimson Tide their 18th win of the season and fourth in conference play, strengthening their resume for the NCAA Tournament. For the Mississippi State Bulldogs, the loss marks another tough road defeat in the SEC as they continue to search for their first conference win away from home.