Women's basketball team

[jdelta02]

Players starting to arrive for the summer session. Quite a few new faces and question marks with the 2025-26 team but they do bring a more than solid combination of experienced NCAA D1 players and young talent.

Biggest question mark is at the center spot...
6-7 Rocio Jimenez and 6-6 Faith Wylder (Stony Brook transfer). Not much info out there about either of these two, though enough to know that Wylder was a highly thought of high school (home school) talent around the New York area. 6-3 freshman Nataliyah Gray is very versatile and can play anywhere in the frontcourt needed. Ole Miss transfer 6-2 Kharyssa Richardson..another name.

[BravesDoggy]

Pee Wee needs to learn that he has to do the other half of his role and coach the team too.

[Quaoarsking]

Pee Wee needs to learn that he has to do the other half of his role and coach the team too.

Sure, but let's not forget that he's reached the Round of 32 twice in his first 3 seasons. That's pretty good.

[NCMSTFAN]

Purcell didn't hit the transfer portal as hard as he should have. We currently have 11 players and we can carry 15. Injuries happen, I wouldn't feel comfortable at only 11. We have enough gaurds and wings, I'd at least like to see us add another post player

[ZedFedder]

This team will have a losing record next year.

[Quaoarsking]

This team will have a losing record next year.

In the SEC? Probably.

Overall? Very unlikely.

[ZedFedder]

In the SEC? Probably.

Overall? Very unlikely.

We shall see. I think they are going to be bottom 4 in the SEC.

[Ezsoil]

Sure, but let's not forget that he's reached the Round of 32 twice in his first 3 seasons. That's pretty good.

He has won at least I post season game in each season...

[Cooterpoot]

They're not going to be good

[NCMSTFAN]

They're not going to be good

As we sit right now on paper I'd have to agree. That said I do like that we kept Destiny Mcphaul, if you watched any of our games she should have been our starting PG, she will have a good season. I also really like our Freshman class... they are all 6'1 to 6'3 and can play. 6'2" Madison Francis is a day 1 starter, there's a reason she made the USA team. But we do have alot of unknowns, especially in the post. Jimenez and Wylder are huge at 6'6 and 6'7 but are both raw and unproven. Purcell must know something we don't because Im surprised he at least didn't go grab a JUCO big as a backup, especially with these two's injury history

[NCMSTFAN]

This team will have a losing record next year.
Im not sure about that, we have enough talent with Mcphaul, Prater and Francis alone to at least have a winning OOC record.

[jdelta02]

Im not sure about that, we have enough talent with Mcphaul, Prater and Francis alone to at least have a winning OOC record.
Nataliyah Gray and Jaylah Lampley...both appear high talent level as well, advanced incoming freshmen. This freshman class is better than #11 nationally..the scouts missed bad on ranking Nataliyah Gray out of Houston TX. Without the freshmen...yes, appears a down season record wise. Purcell and his staff gonna have to play the freshmen. Throw 6-6 sophomore Faith Wylder out there as well, let them grow through their mistakes and get better as the season progresses...best opportunity for a late season run. Also, Mcphaul is definitely a baller but the coaching staff doesn't appear sold (not completely) yet on her as a true point guard but a combo guard..and is definitely looking to give the Howard University transfer Saniyah King a long look to see if she can fill a true point guard type role for the team similar to Denim Deshields. Could initially go either way with these two but at the end of the day expect the staff to build around 2024-25 MEAC Rookie Of The Year Saniyah King as she learns and adjusts.

Possible breakout season (potential) with any of these... Destiny Mcphaul and Kharyssa Richardson, Crisp and Prater . Gotta bring it though, we shall see.

In the midst of all this...
Juco transfer Awa Fane is a talented combo guard. Her main upside appears as a point guard. Just needs more developing, experience playing at a higher level..

Rocio Jimenez?..still crickets, though we shall see

[jdelta02]

6-1, 6-2 guard/wing Jaylah Lampley is a knockdown shooter. Lawrence Central High School, Indianapolis, Indiana. Played against high level in and out of state competition. They had another good scorer on the team to help carry the scoring load...sister 6-2 guard Lola Lampley (#20 ESPN, a leading candidate McDonald's All American 2026) and other teammates. Lampley sisters are talented. Not twins but not easy tell them apart on the court unless watching their numbers.

Another thing that helps give Jaylah an edge as a freshman is her ability to defend.

[ScottH]

FWIW, Had lunch this week with a friend that has to be one of their most ardent supporters.
Sees every home game and almost all of the away.
That fan?s opinion is we will be in the bottom 3 of the SEC this year and most following years.
They feel the only way we move up
Is others move back because of other?s devaluing women?s hoops.

[Tater]

They're not going to be good

Losing Okot showed where the state of this program is at. We're not prioritizing women's hoops. Purcell is trying, but we aren't allocating him enough resources.

[jdelta02]

Losing Okot showed where the state of this program is at. We're not prioritizing women's hoops. Purcell is trying, but we aren't allocating him enough resources.

Regardless, they did manage to get standout freshman point guard transfer Saniyah King out of the transfer portal and managed to keep a couple of talented, experienced guards in Destiny Mcphaul and Chandler Prater. Also, guard Trayanna Crisp is a former starter at Arizona State...12.1 pts per gm. Kharyssa Richardson started at Auburn. Picked up a junior college All American 1st team guard...Awa Fane. Possibly 6-7 Rocio Jeminez getting healthy and looking to see her first action. Picked up 6-6 transfer Faith Wylder an up and coming young post talent who was injured for her freshman season at Stony Brook. Also, they have 3 very talented freshmen coming in. Yes, could have done better at retaining players from last season and better on paper in the transfer portal... but the group that they currently have to work with is certainly nothing to hang heads down about. Also, they're still looking to fill additional roster spots. Why throw in the towel? Possible this group could surprise.

Heads up..don't sleep on 6-3 freshman Nataliyah Gray. Possibly lead this team in scoring as a freshman. Destiny Mcphaul is capable of a breakout season and filling it up as well. Chandler Prater is a baller and she's tough. Also, Prater brings much needed length and defense on the perimeter. Freshman Madison Francis..high expectations. Jaylah Lampley...highest rated of the freshmen according to ESPN. Sophomore point guard transfer Saniyah King..true point guard.

Also, Ole Miss transfer Kharyssa Richardson gonna be on a serious mission..best lookout. Trayanna Crisp on a mission.

It's just June and fans already throwing in the towel?

[jdelta02]

Got a good look at freshman Jaylah Lampley last night in the Indiana vs Kentucky All Star Girls Game action. Lampley had 17 points but appeared out of it bad, appeared mentally out of it. Huge issues holding on to the ball, turnovers, issues holding on to passes, point blank missed, ect....literally self checked herself a good bit of the game. Appeared she had over 19 missed opportunities for various reasons..including one 2 points basket with the foul..one and one opportunity waived off by the referee. Though, she did nearly have the winning basketball in regulation but the referee waived it off as well. Lampley could have had 30 points last nights. Appears some really sloppy, bad looking basketball from her that helped cause the Indiana all star team the game. Appeared to be sleep walking through this game, though you could see flashes of her talent. Lot to clean up in her game..doesn't"t appear near ready at this point ...still though it's just early June and lots of time to clean things up better before the season. Games like this can end up being a good thing for a player..a wakeup call, motivation to get to work and clean things up. The LSU incoming McDonald's All American freshman on the other all star team (Kentucky All Stars) looked really impressive . LSU's guards for next season...some serious talent.

[jdelta02]

Destiny Mcphaul
https://x.com/hailstatewbk/status/1875989113771524407/mediaviewer

[jdelta02]

Destiny Mcphaul
https://x.com/hailstatewbk/status/1882604870047523198/mediaviewer

She has always reminded me of Zia Cooke

[Pancho]

still can't open that but I feel like there are way too many unknowns on this team to be very consistent next season. maybe they all stay around and appear more cohesive in year 2 but who know nowadays? Purcells portal haul isn't near what the top SEC womens teams have brought it either. everyone loves a challenge, right?

[NCMSTFAN]

still can't open that but I feel like there are way too many unknowns on this team to be very consistent next season. maybe they all stay around and appear more cohesive in year 2 but who know nowadays? Purcells portal haul isn't near what the top SEC womens teams have brought it either. everyone loves a challenge, right?

I agree, Purcell didn't hit the portal very hard but he did sign a top 10/15 high school class and is in the process of signing another top 10 class for next year as well so we will have some talent as long as we can keep them.

[jdelta02]

Appears that all of the current roster players are on campus for summer school and workouts accept for Madison Francis who was invited to the USA Under 19 National Team trials starting up June 19.

If the team had to play a game today (summer event) with the players currently on campus doing summer session and workouts.
(Starting Lineup..First 5)
-6-2 Kharyssa Richardson
- 6-3 Nataliyah Gray
-5-11 Chandler Prater
- 5-9 Destiny Mcphaul
- 5-8 Saniyah King
First Sub In... Trayanna Crisp

(Next 3)
- 5-8 Trayanna Crisp
- 6-1, 6-2 Jaylah Lampley
- 6-6 Faith Wylder

Note...
Can play an uptempo pressing style with this group, especially having junior college transfer Awa Fane available to help the guards. Her skill set appears well suited for this style and is very capable of pushing for playing time.

[Cooterpoot]

I agree, Purcell didn't hit the portal very hard but he did sign a top 10/15 high school class and is in the process of signing another top 10 class for next year as well so we will have some talent as long as we can keep them.

None of those top players stayed on campus to this point

[EdwardDrayton]

Not enough size to effectively compete in the top tier.

[Thick]

Gonna be a tough season for the Lady Dawgs.

[NCMSTFAN]

None of those top players stayed on campus to this point

Not sure what you are talking about. Purcell signed a top 10 to 15 class (depending on what sight you look at) this year, 2025.

ESPN has our 2025 class at #11:

https://www.espn.com/womens-college-basketball/story/_/id/42510051/2025-womens-college-basketball-top-25-post-signing-window-recruiting-class-rankings

247 has our 2025 class at #14:

https://247sports.com/season/2025-womens-basketball/compositeteamrankings/


He has also already gotten commitments from 2 top 60 girls in the class of 2026, Lani Smallwood and Andrea Flores:

https://247sports.com/Player/andrea-flores-46153830/
https://247sports.com/Player/lani-smallwood-46153037/

Purcell did have somewhat of a down off season in the portal but he recruited well with High School players and all three of those 2025 girls can play. They all have size and length as well (6'1" to 6'3"), Madison Francis will play a lot early and will probably start as a 3 or stretch 4. I understand we are in the portal age but that doesn't necessarily apply to Womens basketball as much as Mens basketball or football. Top high school players aren't as far off than the College players with the Women's game. If a girl is averaging 25 in High School at a 5A or 6A school, it typically translates to College

[NCMSTFAN]

Appears that all of the current roster players are on campus for summer school and workouts accept for Madison Francis who was invited to the USA Under 19 National Team trials starting up June 19.

If the team had to play a game today (summer event) with the players currently on campus doing summer session and workouts.
(Starting Lineup..First 5)
-6-2 Kharyssa Richardson
- 6-3 Nataliyah Gray
-5-11 Chandler Prater
- 5-9 Destiny Mcphaul
- 5-8 Saniyah King
First Sub In... Trayanna Crisp

(Next 3)
- 5-8 Trayanna Crisp
- 6-1, 6-2 Jaylah Lampley
- 6-6 Faith Wylder

Note...
Can play an uptempo pressing style with this group, especially having junior college transfer Awa Fane available to help the guards. Her skill set appears well suited for this style and is very capable of pushing for playing time.

6'7" Jimenez is currently practicing also

[Thick]

So you?re saying we have more size and talent than what?s been posted?

[Cooterpoot]

Not sure what you are talking about. Purcell signed a top 10 to 15 class (depending on what sight you look at) this year, 2025.

ESPN has our 2025 class at #11:

https://www.espn.com/womens-college-basketball/story/_/id/42510051/2025-womens-college-basketball-top-25-post-signing-window-recruiting-class-rankings

247 has our 2025 class at #14:

https://247sports.com/season/2025-womens-basketball/compositeteamrankings/


He has also already gotten commitments from 2 top 60 girls in the class of 2026, Lani Smallwood and Andrea Flores:

https://247sports.com/Player/andrea-flores-46153830/
https://247sports.com/Player/lani-smallwood-46153037/

Purcell did have somewhat of a down off season in the portal but he recruited well with High School players and all three of those 2025 girls can play. They all have size and length as well (6'1" to 6'3"), Madison Francis will play a lot early and will probably start as a 3 or stretch 4. I understand we are in the portal age but that doesn't necessarily apply to Womens basketball as much as Mens basketball or football. Top high school players aren't as far off than the College players with the Women's game. If a girl is averaging 25 in High School at a 5A or 6A school, it typically translates to College

What I said, We keep signing them and they keep leaving

[Cooterpoot]

6'7" Jimenez is currently practicing also

Will never help us much

[NCMSTFAN]

What I said, We keep signing them and they keep leaving

And we will see them leave again next year and the year after... it will continue until the landscape of College sports changes. Ole Miss lost 8 girls, Ark lost 7, LSU 6, Missouri 6... its just what happens unfortunately

[NCMSTFAN]

So you?re saying we have more size and talent than what?s been posted?

He didn't post the full roster. Our girls with size:

6'1" Jayla Lampey
6'2" Kharyssa Richardson
6'2" Madison Francis
6'3" Natalia Gray
6'6" Faith Wylder
6'7" Rocio Jiminez

We have 11 total players and can carry 15, I don't know why Purcell didn't fill the roster.

[jdelta02]

6'7" Jimenez is currently practicing also

Im gonna continue to hold Rocio Jimenez out of any player rotation listings for now. Let her go through these summer workouts and see how her physical status responds. Reevaluate her status during the fall. (Note) Her physical well being extends past the game of basketball.

[NCMSTFAN]

Im gonna continue to hold Rocio Jimenez out of any player rotation listings for now. Let her go through these summer workouts and see how her physical status responds. Reevaluate her status during the fall. (Note) Her physical well being extends past the game of basketball.

She's on the roster and she's at practice so all we can do is assume she's ready to go until we hear she's not. This is her 3rd year at State, she's never touched the floor... if she's still not ready Purcell should have addressed that in the portal, JUCO rankings or high school and got another true big since we lost all 3 of our Center.(2 to transfer and 1 to graduation).

Im counting her in until I hear otherwise but thats on Purcell if he didn't get a true big and we still sit here with 4 remaining scholarships. I do like the fact that we have some size and length at the forward and wing spots, that will help but in the SEC you have to have that true big to anchor the middle. Yes we have 6'6 Wilder as well but is she ready?

[jdelta02]

Not sure what you are talking about. Purcell signed a top 10 to 15 class (depending on what sight you look at) this year, 2025.

ESPN has our 2025 class at #11:

https://www.espn.com/womens-college-basketball/story/_/id/42510051/2025-womens-college-basketball-top-25-post-signing-window-recruiting-class-rankings

247 has our 2025 class at #14:

https://247sports.com/season/2025-womens-basketball/compositeteamrankings/


He has also already gotten commitments from 2 top 60 girls in the class of 2026, Lani Smallwood and Andrea Flores:

https://247sports.com/Player/andrea-flores-46153830/
https://247sports.com/Player/lani-smallwood-46153037/

Purcell did have somewhat of a down off season in the portal but he recruited well with High School players and all three of those 2025 girls can play. They all have size and length as well (6'1" to 6'3"), Madison Francis will play a lot early and will probably start as a 3 or stretch 4. I understand we are in the portal age but that doesn't necessarily apply to Womens basketball as much as Mens basketball or football. Top high school players aren't as far off than the College players with the Women's game. If a girl is averaging 25 in High School at a 5A or 6A school, it typically translates to College

I agree that incoming freshman Madison Francis is projected to start in the frontcourt. I have her as a starter as well. Also, Coach Purcell indicated that he felt that she is a "special player". Appears she's not expected to arrive until some point after her participation with the USA Under 19 National Team trials and team. Freshman Nataliyah Gray is a starter up front as well. Gray is a double double waiting to happen even as a freshman. The 3rd freshman Jaylah Lampley, the highest rated of the three. Is she ready? We shall see.

[jdelta02]

Dushawn London analysis from 247 Sports reported a few weeks ago that Miss. State was one of the teams in contract with Colorado transfer Ayianna Johnson. She's listed as a 6-3 center/power, appears she plays both positions as needed.. Noted for her strength and toughness in the post area. Haven't heard anything else regarding her since..been a few weeks The coaches have been keeping info regarding these transfers pretty much under wraps.They could pick up this player or easily be a totally different player or no player at all..this stuff goes in multiple directions.

[jdelta02]

I agree that incoming freshman Madison Francis is projected to start in the frontcourt. I have her as a starter as well. Also, Coach Purcell indicated that he felt that she is a "special player". Appears she's not expected to arrive until some point after her participation with the USA Under 19 National Team trials and team. Freshman Nataliyah Gray is a starter up front as well. Gray is a double double waiting to happen even as a freshman. The 3rd freshman Jaylah Lampley, the highest rated of the three. Is she ready? We shall see.

As the freshmen get up to speed, and the 2: sophomores adjust...this team can definitely compete. Also, they know that Destiny Mcphaul gonna be really good.

[ZedFedder]

As the freshmen get up to speed, and the 2: sophomores adjust...this team can definitely compete. Also, they know that Destiny Mcphaul gonna be really good.

I just cannot see that.

[99jc]

I just cannot see that.

put you maroon and white glasses on then!

[NCMSTFAN]

I just cannot see that.

I will say this, from a far this team looks average on paper. We have some solid pieces and good incoming Freshman but nothing to think we will be a top half team. But if you really followed last year's team our only big loss is Okot. We will definitely miss Jerk and Powe because they were dawgs and leaders but neither had blow away seasons from an impact and percentage standpoint, if you watched the games you know what I mean.

As for Mcphaul and Prater they both played starter minutes, were 2nd and 3rd in fg% behind Okot, and were 1st and 2nd on the team in free throw % playing 20 plus minutes a game a piece. They are solid returners. The biggest question is how ready our Freshman will be because I can see them playing alot. The verdict is also still out for the transfers, im not sure how they will fit in yet to be honest

[jdelta02]

USC's women's basketball team had 7 freshmen and 3 sophomores on it's roster this past season. (Note) They beat Miss. State by 37 points, 96-59 in the NCAA Tournament this past season.

(Note)
USC had picked up freshmen JuJu Watkins and Aaliyah Gales the season before then picked up 7 more freshman for this past season...fairly quickly they elevated to powerhouse level in women's college basketball. Possible a type of blueprint on how to quickly build a top program without being heavily dependent on the transfer portal. In recent seasons Miss. State's women's basketball program hasn't been able to compete at the level of the top teams in the SEC and nationally via riding the transfers they've been bringing in. Though, they did make 2 out of the last 3 NCAA Tournaments and beat Oklahoma this past season...nearly beat Texas. Now they appear to be starting to go much more the high school (similar to described of USC) route mixed with transfers as a combination, and looking to follow that up with another strong freshman class next season while still mixing in transfers as needed. Also, note Coach Purcell and an assistant were recently at an event watching Jaylah Lampley's highly rated sister Lola Lampley (#20 ESPN class of 2026). She's a leading candidate for 2025-26 McDonald's All American.

[EdwardDrayton]

At a higher level Purcell has three years under his belt and his conference record is .500. And it has slipped slightly every year. Yes, we have made the tourney two out of three but seems like this is the year we need to show some improvement. And the outlook at this juncture does not look promising.

[jdelta02]

Saw today where Coach Purcell did a media interview team update. Based on his comments appears they are stressing spacing the floor on offense. Players currently working hard, also 2 days a week of open gym. Also, appears they are expecting to add another player to the roster soon (within next 2 weeks).

Noticed...
The 2 positions that he basically didn't speak on in this interview were the point guard spot and the 4 spot. Give it time.
My opinion
Point Guard - Saniyah King
Stretch 4- Nataliyah Gray

[NCMSTFAN]

Saw you where Coach Purcell did a media interview update. Based on his comments appears they are stressing spacing the floor on offense. Players currently working hard, also 2 days a week of open gym. Also, appears they are expecting to add another player to the roster soon (within next 2 weeks).

Noticed...
The 2 positions that he basically didn't speak on in this interview were the point guard spot and the 4 spot. Give it time.
My opinion
Point Guard - Saniyah King
Stretch 4- Nataliyah Gray

I was glad to hear he wasn't done recruiting for the year yet and is possibly adding another piece. He mentioned this new player when talking about the bigs so it sounds like she is a big.

[jdelta02]

Madison Francis' dunk from high school game this past season that went viral. She dunked again within 10 days of this one.

https://youtube.com/shorts/aBwrpqADnf8?si=YKJVCeJzoVCtd9c9

[StarkVegasSteve]

Madison Francis' dunk from high school game this past season that went viral. She dunked again within 10 days of this one.

https://youtube.com/shorts/aBwrpqADnf8?si=YKJVCeJzoVCtd9c9

It feels like she's going to be Sam's Vivians. Seems like she's going to have a ton of hype as a Freshman and people will be expecting her to produce immediately.

[NCMSTFAN]

It feels like she's going to be Sam's Vivians. Seems like she's going to have a ton of hype as a Freshman and people will be expecting her to produce immediately.

She's a star in the making. There is a reason she is with Team USA U19 right now. Whether she makes that team or not just being invited is huge. She did play for the Team USA U18 last year too with girls like Sarah Stong who was one of the best players in the nation if not the best as a Freshman from UCONN, so she has played against the best and is battle tested, she will be ready from day 1.

My only concern is will we be able to keep her? Purcell flew out to watch her yesterday:

https://x.com/SamPurcellMSU/status/1935840082293907648/photo/1

[jdelta02]

General
Recent videos i've seen Rocio Jimenez looks to move well in non on court. Doesn't appear hampered in any way. Whole team(on and off campus) looks to be healthy, enjoying themselves and bonding. Also, according to Sam Purcell the women's basketball team is expected to announce an additional player to it's roster soon. Noticed Chandler Prater appears to have taken on a leadership role on this team as well as a representative of the university.

Freshmen
Again, hold the presses...in my opinion the sleeper on this whole team is 6-3 freshman Nataliyah Gray out of Houston TX. She's a double double waiting to happen, shot blocker, 3 level scorer, guard skills, and appears to fit into Fred Castro's offense like a glove. Also, 6'1, 6'2 freshman Jaylah Lampley is a very good 3 pt shooter especially in the catch and shoot, has guard skills, and is a noted defender. Fits into the offensive system as well..glove. Appears the staff is looking to possibly add her sister(class of 2026) to come play with her as well. Been seeing where head coach and teammates speaking highly of the effort and progress both have been making. Incoming freshman Madison Francis coming in with the most hype out of the 3... expected to arrive in Starkville in the coming weeks will be a good bit behind these two in regards to summer workouts, other on campus development related. After she and the anticipated new player arrive will see how they adjust and blend in with the current players and the team's system, needs, objectives, ect.... helping give more insight on the bigger picture regarding personnel as the team moves closer and closer to fall practice and the start of the 2025-26 season.

.

[jdelta02]

Found these Trayonna Crisp highlights. (Note) Averaged 12.1 points per game 33.3 percent 3 points range at Arizona State.
https://youtu.be/flOr-bOhX58?si=8lpa5wQK1kPQARD-

[jdelta02]

(Practice video) Kharyssa Richardson looks like a baller (eye test). Coach Purcell mentioned in a press conference a few days ago her being an explosive player. Freshman Nataliyah Gray, impressive, can be seen showing just a glimpse of her skill, talent. These 2 gone be a problem. Also, Faith Wylder showing athleticism while executing a solid post move. Other players making perimeter shots.
https://x.com/HailStateWBK/status/1937977770069430567

[jdelta02]

Meanwhile....👁️
Coach Yo's squad going at it as well
https://x.com/OleMissWBB/status/1937276587948327162
🥱🙃Just kidding around, impressive looking squad.

[99jc]

Meanwhile....��️
Coach Yo's squad going at it as well
https://x.com/OleMissWBB/status/1937276587948327162
����Just kidding around, impressive looking squad.

I really appreciate your Womens BB post but please refrain from posting any ole miss videos it gives me diarrhea!***

[ScottH]

When do we get Sam's announcement he hinted at?

[NCMSTFAN]

When do we get Sam's announcement he hinted at?

Good question, from what I've gathered it is supposed to be a big. Possibly another overseas hidden gem? That's the only thing I could think of that would take two weeks to announce as he stated.

*Edit..... Purcell just posted on Twitter that we are getting some good news this 4th of July week so it sounds like we find out this week.

https://x.com/SamPurcellMSU/status/1939678762703970369

[NCMSTFAN]

https://hailstate.com/news/2025/6/30/womens-basketball-womens-basketball-adds-favour-nwaedozi-to-2025-26-roster

Here is the announcement player Sam was talking about. Like I thought an overseas big, she sounds like another good steal.

[jdelta02]

Listed 6-3 Favour Onyinye Nwaedozi from Nigeria. Indicates that she played her college ball in Japan. Kansai Women's Basketball this past season averaging 26 pts 17 rebounds per game. Miss. State media indicating that she's the real deal and that she has that wow factor.

Anyone have any video? Saw a short snippet of her making an acrobatic layup..can see the wow factor on that play. Still won't nothing be given to her, gotta come in and earn it. Same for Madison Francis. Everyone on the team has the same opportunity to come in work hard, keep getting better, and continue to prove themselves.

Miss. State's frontcourt looking stout

[basedog]

Listed 6-3 Favour Nwaedozi from Nigeria. Indicates that she played her college ball in Japan. Kansai Women's Basketball this past season averaging 26 pts 17 rebounds per game. Miss. State media indicating that she's the real deal and that she has that wow factor.

Anyone have any video? Saw a short snippet of her making an acrobatic layup..can see the wow factor on that play. Still won't nothing be given to her, gotta come in and earn it. Same for Madison Francis. Everyone on the team has the same opportunity to come in work hard, keep getting better, and continue to prove themselves.

Miss. State's frontcourt looking stout

Very impressive stats.

[Saltydog]

Purcell is trash. No control over the team. I see players walk away from him when he's talking to them and their body language is terrible. He was supposed to be this great recruiter but so far I haven't seen it. in the meantime, our friends up north are the better program right now. You can keep drinking your maroon kool aid but this team will stink.

[jdelta02]

Very impressive stats.

I agree (26 points 17 rebounds per game)

[NCMSTFAN]

Purcell is trash. No control over the team. I see players walk away from him when he's talking to them and their body language is terrible. He was supposed to be this great recruiter but so far I haven't seen it. in the meantime, our friends up north are the better program right now. You can keep drinking your maroon kool aid but this team will stink.

I dont think this was directed at me but I've never worn Maroon colored glasses and have always called it like I see it in every MSU sport.

That said I think we will be a little better than what you think. I dont see us finishing much worse than what we have the past 3 seasons. Last year we finished 10th in the SEC at 22-12 and still made it to the 2nd round of the tournament. The prior two years under Purcell we went 23-12 and 22-11.

I expect a similar record, we didn't lose as much talent as some are trying to act like we did. Our biggest loss was Okot. Jerk and Debreasha were hot and cold all season. We brought enough talent in to be competitive. I do agree with you that Coach Yo has Ole Miss looking really good now, I hate to see that, especially with our History in Women's basketball

[basedog]

I agree (26 points 17 rebounds per game)

She also has good size. If she does half of those stats for a first-year player, that would be very good!

[NCMSTFAN]

https://x.com/SamPurcellMSU/status/1940121447822991683

This is our new pickup. Yes it's a football but you can see the athleticism Sam and Castro were talking about.

Our Freshman Madison Hayes can also dunk a basketball, one thing we wont lack is athleticism

[jdelta02]

Favour Onyinye Nwaedozi had a game where she scored 36 points and had 28 rebounds in an international tournament during the summer of 2024. Had 30 points and another 28 rebounds in another game during the same tournament. Her team went 5-0 and won the whole thing. Also, she was named Tournament MVP.

[Pancho]

what type competition did she face in this tourney?

[basedog]

what type competition did she face in this tourney?

I can tell you w/o knowing probably not good BUT anyone scoring 36 points with 26 rebounds has the "it factor".

[Pancho]

maybe she can get 10 and 10 a game

[NCMSTFAN]

what type competition did she face in this tourney?

There's just not enough out on her to know how good the competition was or how good she is. We do know she played some College ball in Japan and averaged over 20 ppg and double digit rebounds. She is 21 years old and is listed as a Junior.

What Purcell said about her:

"Favour has a wow factor. She's a versatile post player that can score inside and outside," Purcell said. "She's extremely skillful on the court and can defend the full length of the floor. Most importantly, I look forward to seeing our fans fall in love with her million-dollar personality.

What Castro said:

"Favour is a freakish athlete that has a nose for the ball. She attacks the rebound like few I have ever seen," associate head coach and offensive coordinator Fred Castro said. "Her combination of power and speed makes her a tough matchup at 6-3. She can blow by defenders or bully weaker ones."

She sounds like she has alot of good tools, at a minimum she will be a huge rebounder and a great athlete, she barely jumped to dunk a football. Purcell and Castro did a good job recruiting Okot here and no one knew who she was so I trust that we got another steal in Favour.

[jdelta02]

I can tell you w/o knowing probably not good BUT anyone scoring 36 points with 26 rebounds has the "it factor".
28 rebounds😊

[jdelta02]

I recently read an article where it was indicated that Okot was primarily playing against these university teams as well before signing with Miss. State. Good competition, many players from the FIBA national teams, ect go to these various universities. Coach Schaefer took Miss. State women's basketball team to the World Universities Games back in 2019..a team with Jessika Carter, Rickea Jackson, Yemiyah Morris, Jazzmun Holmes, Sidney Cooks, Xaria Wiggins, JaMya Mingo Young, Aliyah Matharu, Andra Espinoza -Hunter, and others..and they pretty much were in tough battles game in and game out. They were in really tough down to the wire battles with the asian teams especially. They beat Japan in a tough battle to advance to the finals against Australia. Then blown out by a loaded team from Australia in the championship game to win the silver. The pool of players that participate on these World University Games teams come from these various university teams internationally including the US and Canada. A good bit of the teams that Favour plays against are very similar to the Japanese team that Miss. State barely got by in 2019 except not stacked or as stacked with select players.

Coach Schaefer spoke throughout the tournament on how tough these university teams were, especially Australia (stacked handpicked roster) and how unprepared his team was, including short amount of time to prepare..

[basedog]

I think Purcell has recruited pretty good this year. I’m not sure his team chemistry wasn’t all that good. In Basketball, that is very big with 5 staters and 12 or 13 players.

[NCMSTFAN]

I think Purcell has recruited pretty good this year. I’m not sure his team chemistry wasn’t all that good. In Basketball, that is very big with 5 staters and 12 or 13 players.

He's done a pretty good job replacing needs in the portal and adding a top 10 Freshman class. I think we will have a solid team. We also have another top class in the making coming next year. 247 has our 2026 class as #4 in the Nation:

https://247sports.com/season/2026-womens-basketball/overallteamrankings/

So before people bash Sam too hard about "supposedly being a good recruiter" He is showing that he's one of the best, he may not have hit the portal as hard this year, but he is bringing in top High School talent and really good International talent, his hardest thing now is just keeping them at State (everyone is struggling with this) and coaching them up. Some people aren't huge fans of Purcell, some love him.

[CaptainObvious]

He's done a pretty good job replacing needs in the portal and adding a top 10 Freshman class. I think we will have a solid team. We also have another top class in the making coming next year. 247 has our 2026 class as #4 in the Nation:

https://247sports.com/season/2026-womens-basketball/overallteamrankings/

So before people bash Sam too hard about "supposedly being a good recruiter" He is showing that he's one of the best, he may not have hit the portal as hard this year, but he is bringing in top High School talent and really good International talent, his hardest thing now is just keeping them at State (everyone is struggling with this) and coaching them up. Some people aren't huge fans of Purcell, some love him.

Seems Sam is recruiting well. But don't put much stock in that 2026 recruiting ranking. The 3rd place team has three 3 stars, State has two 4 stars and everyone behind State just has 1 recruit. Long way to go on that recruiting cycle.

Let's see if he has gotten better at "coaching".

[NCMSTFAN]

Seems Sam is recruiting well. But don't put much stock in that 2026 recruiting ranking. The 3rd place team has three 3 stars, State has two 4 stars and everyone behind State just has 1 recruit. Long way to go on that recruiting cycle.

Let's see if he has gotten better at "coaching".

Why shouldn't I put much stock in the 2026 ranking? I'm well aware that its only 2 players but to start the class with 2 four star top 100 girls is a really good start. We are also in on several other high recruits for 2026 to include Lola Lampley who is Jaylah's sister. She is rated as the #20th best player in the nation regardless of position. The 2026 class will turn out to be a good class even if we only sign another player or two.

I do agree about the coaching, I won't say he's a bad coach because he isn't but he definitely has some improving to do.

[jdelta02]

Coach Purcell...extension
Now, will they commit to keeping the players around as well?
We shall see

[basedog]

I think it’s a good move. You need some stability and this should help with recruiting moving forward. I hope he does well.

[jdelta02]

According to The Commercial Dispatch incoming freshman Madison Francis is expected to join her teammates on campus at Miss. State next week for the rest of summer workouts.

Found these stats from her senior season.
2024-25 Stats, Lancaster HS, NY (Max Preps)...........
32 points per game
14.8 rebounds per game
4.5 blocks per game
3.9 assists per game
52 percent field goal
72 percent free throw
37 percent 3 point (58-155)

[jdelta02]

Gonna need to get Jaylah Lampley and Chandler Prater out on the perimeter helping these smaller guards matchup. Want to move up to the top group of teams in the SEC, Top 25, ect...need to get the freshmen and other young players developed, trained up, coached up, and ready as soon as possible. Also, bring in another good class for 2026. Otherwise you're basically playing year in and year out to maintain a favorable spot within the lower SEC teams...which is no small task in it's self (SEC tough conference).

Picking up the player from Nigeria (Favour Nwaedozi) helps the women's basketball program's effort tremendously. Still, she's gotta adjust/transition from Japanese university level basketball to NCAA D1 basketball (United States) in the SEC. Practicing against an experienced, crafty, physical player like Kharyssa Richardson, and against the length of 6-6 Wylder and 6-7 Jiminez as well as against the the talented freshmen will all definitely help. Been hearing a lot about Tony Duke's ability to help work with, train players. No doubt they have others on staff as well. We shall see.

[jdelta02]

Miss. State's official twitter showing the 2 new players having arrived and started summer practice. They are freshman Madison Francis out of New York and Nigerian transfer Favour Onyinye Nwaedozi who has been playing her college basketball in Japan. Heads up...the Japanese call her Onyinye (meaning in Igbo.."gift from God".

[99jc]

I thought that was c34's title???

[jdelta02]

6-3 freshman Nataliyah Gray, Alief Taylor HS, Houston TX (2024-25 Stats,Max Preps)
26 points per game
13.2 rebounds per game
3.2 blocks per game
2.3 steals per game
77 percent free throw
1.9 assists per game
6th nationally in double doubles, she played in 30 games and had 28 double doubles (led the nation at one point in the season)

She needs to get her 3 point percentage up and continue to get stronger. ( Note) Played in Texas girls basketball class 6A...highest classification in the state. Sleeper on this Miss. St. team, young lady can hoop.

[jdelta02]

I see where back in December of this past season freshman Jaylah Lampley and then #1 Lawrence Central (Indiana) team went to Kentucky and beat #1 Sacred Heart Academy (Kentucky) led by 2025 McDonald's All American guard Zakiyah Johnson.



Final....Lawrence Central 69 Sacred Heart Academy 49

Lawrence Central
Jaylah Lampley 23 points
Lola Lampley 16 points

Sacred Heart
Zakiyah Johnson 10 points

Coach Purcell spoke very highly of Jaylah Lampley's progress since arriving at Miss. State for summer workouts. First name he mentioned when asked about the freshmen. Need to get sister Lola Lampley in as well. These two sisters appear an even tougher matchup when playing together.