Mississippi State is hoping that Ben Howland will be able to help their team to a winning season, something they haven’t had since 2011. Howland will have the first chance to prove himself when his team opens against Eastern Washington at home on November 13.
The Bulldogs released their non-conference schedule today, featuring six home games, as well as games at Puerto Rico Tip-Off Classic. They play Missouri-Kansas City and Florida State on the road. The Bulldogs game against Northern Colorado is at the Mississippi Coliseum in Jackson, Mississippi.
Mississippi State finished their 2014-2015 season with a record of 13-19, and 6-12 SEC record. Eastern Washington finished their season at 26-9, losing to Georgetown in the second round of the NCAA tournament. The Eagles are not an easy team to beat by any means, and Howland knows this.
“I’m excited about our schedule. Eastern Washington will be a tough opener. They were in the NCAA tournament last year and are very well coached. They have the core of their team returning, and they will prove to be a competitive start for us.” Howland said of the schedule and first opponent.
We will see Ben Howland and his team take on Fort Valley State, November 6 in an exhibition game. Before their season starts seven days later and Howland makes his coach debut for the Mississippi State Bulldogs.
2015-16 Non-Conference Schedule
N6 Friday Fort Valley State (EXB)
N13 Friday Eastern Washington
N16 Monday Southern University
N19 Thursday Puerto Rico Classic
N20 Friday Puerto Rico Classic
N22 Sunday Puerto Rico Classic
N28 Saturday UT Martin
D2 Wednesday Texas Southern
D12 Saturday at Missouri-Kansas City
D16 Wednesday at Florida State
D19 Saturday Tulane
D23 Wednesday vs. Northern Colorado^
D31 Thursday North Carolina Central
^Mississippi Coliseum, Jackson, Miss.
Can’t get enough of Campus Sports? Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram to stay updated with the latest news and exclusive giveaways!
*Featured Photo (above) credit to USA TODAY Sports