Josh Hubbard Secures Second SEC Freshman of the Week Award Amidst Mississippi State’s Stellar Season
Mississippi State‘s star freshman guard Josh Hubbard has been named the SEC Freshman of the Week for the second time this season, the conference office announced on Monday. Hubbard’s accomplishment has placed him among the elite company of Bulldog players who have earned the honor more than once, joining the likes of Reggie Perry and Quinndary Weatherspoon.
Hubbard’s performance over the week was nothing short of remarkable, as he averaged 19.5 points across the games, bolstered by his prowess from beyond the arc with seven three-pointers. He shone particularly bright against the No. 5 ranked Tennessee, dropping a season second-best 25 points and leading Mississippi State to their first victory over a Top 5 AP-ranked opponent since the 2002-03 season.
With 241 points scored in the season so far, Hubbard stands fifth among Mississippi State freshmen through the first 16 games, the highest since Rickey Brown‘s era in 1976-77. His ability to provide offensive firepower off the bench has been critical, with 14 games scoring in double figures, tying for the fourth-most by a State player since the 1989-90 season.
The young guard’s unique contributions have not gone unnoticed, as the Elias Sports Bureau notes that Hubbard is the sole Power 6 freshman (ACC, BIG EAST, Big Ten, Big 12, Pac-12, SEC) averaging at least 15.0 points per game in at least 15 games played off the bench since the 2005-06 season.
Mississippi State’s overall performance this season has been impressive, with the Bulldogs being one of only three SEC programs alongside Auburn and Tennessee, and one of 26 nationally, to secure at least five combined NCAA NET Quad 1 and Quad 2 victories. Additionally, they join Memphis as the only programs with at least four non-conference wins against Power 5 opponents on road or neutral courts in the 2023-24 season.
Looking ahead, the Bulldogs are preparing for a challenging matchup as they travel to face the No. 8 ranked Kentucky in their fourth consecutive NCAA NET Quad 1 contest to kick off SEC play. The highly anticipated game is scheduled for Wednesday, with a tip-off at 6 p.m. CT. Fans can catch the action live on ESPN2 or stream it via the ESPN app.
Josh Hubbard’s ascent as a standout freshman in the SEC is a testament to Mississippi State’s robust recruiting and development program. As the Bulldogs continue their journey through a tough conference schedule, all eyes will be on Hubbard to see if he can maintain his exceptional level of play and help lead his team to further success.
