South Carolina’s defense locked in during the second and third quarters, forcing Mississippi State into eight straight misses over a nine-minute stretch. The Bulldogs, who average 18 assists per game, were held to just eight for the afternoon as USC disrupted passing lanes and smothered ball handlers.

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WACH) — No. 17 Mississippi State wins against South Carolina 85-50 in Saturday’s SEC opener. Josh Hubbard scored 21 points, and Claudell Harris added 17. The Bulldogs (13-1) opened with a 15-2 run and led 43-18 at halftime. Zachary Davis scored a career-high 22 points for South Carolina (10-4).

When South Carolina basketball takes the floor on Saturday against Mississippi State, the Bulldogs won’t be at full strength. According to State’s SEC-mandated availability/injury report, former starting guard Kanye Clary will be out for the game.