#9 Baylor vs #8 Mississippi State NCAAB Pick: A Marquee 8-9 Duel (Mar 21)

• Baylor fell short with a 76-74 loss to Texas Tech.
• Mississippi State was defeated by Missouri 85-73.
• The last matchup took place on Mar. 18, 2018. Bulldogs won 78-77.

The #9 seed Baylor Bears are set to face the #8 seed Mississippi State Bulldogs in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on Mar. 21, at PNC Arena in Raleigh, North Carolina. Both teams have had competitive seasons in their respective conferences, and this matchup is anticipated to be a closely contested battle. The winner will advance to the Round of 32, keeping their championship aspirations alive.

The Bears Sink Or Swim Moment

The Baylor Bears concluded the regular season with a 19-14 overall record and a 10-10 mark in Big 12 play. Despite their early exit in the conference tournament, the Bears have demonstrated resilience and depth throughout the season.

Offensively, they average 75.2 points per game, with a shooting efficiency that ranks them among the top teams nationally. Defensively, Baylor allows an average of 68.9 points per game, showcasing a balanced approach on both ends of the court.

Key players include senior guard V.J. Edgecombe, who leads the team in scoring and assists, and junior forward Jeremy Roach, known for his versatility and defensive tenacity.

For Baylor to secure a victory, they will need to capitalize on their offensive efficiency and maintain defensive pressure to disrupt Mississippi State’s rhythm.

How Loud Are The Bulldogs Barks?

The Mississippi State Bulldogs enter the tournament with a 21-12 overall record and an 8-10 record in SEC play. Their season has been marked by strong defensive performances, holding opponents to an average of 68.4 points per game.

Offensively, the Bulldogs average 72.1 points per game, with a focus on inside scoring and rebounding.

Standout players include senior forward Tolu Smith, who leads the team in both scoring and rebounding and sophomore guard Shakeel Moore, who provides perimeter shooting and defensive prowess. To advance, Mississippi State will need to leverage its defensive strengths and control the tempo, preventing Baylor from finding an offensive rhythm.

Baylor Bears vs Mississippi State Bulldogs Pick

This 8-9 matchup is expected to be tightly contested, reflecting the teams’ similar records and competitive seasons. Both teams boast strong defenses, suggesting a potentially low-scoring affair. Baylor’s experience in recent NCAA Tournaments could provide a slight edge, but Mississippi State’s defensive capabilities cannot be understated. The game may ultimately be decided by which team can execute more effectively in the final minutes.