The Ole Miss Rebels and the Mississippi State Bulldogs will meet twice in the 2026‑27 men’s basketball season, with the first showdown set for February 13 in Oxford and the rematch slated for March 6 in Starkville.
Both programs released their SEC conference schedules this week, confirming a home‑and‑away format that will pit the Rebels against the Bulldogs in back‑to‑back road trips.
The announcement comes after a 2025‑26 campaign that fell short of NCAA tournament qualification for each team, prompting a focus on developing the talent that will return next year.
Ole Miss will retain guard Ilias Kamardine, forward Patton Pinkins and guard Zach Day, while Mississippi State’s star guard Josh Hubbard is set to return for his senior season, adding experience to a roster eager to break through.
In addition, the Bulldogs have unveiled a nonconference slate that includes a December 1 matchup at Virginia Tech, a game that could serve as an early test before conference play begins.
Returning Talent Shapes Outlook
The presence of key veterans on both sides adds a layer of continuity that coaches hope will translate into better execution on the court.
Fans in Oxford and Starkville can expect a competitive atmosphere as the two in‑state rivals vie for bragging rights, with the SEC schedule promising several other high‑profile matchups.