Watching Southern Mississippi basketball this season has been one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had as a longtime college basketball analyst. I’ve followed this program for years, through rebuilding phases and coaching changes, and what we’re witnessing now feels like the payoff—a genuine rise, not just a lucky streak. It’s a story of resilience, teamwork, and some standout individual performances that have turned this squad into a formidable contender. I’ve always believed that a team’s identity is forged in close games and tough matchups, and Southern Mississippi has shown exactly that kind of character.
One game that stands out vividly in my mind was their recent clash against a tough opponent, where the team’s depth and composure were on full display. While Southern Mississippi’s stars delivered as expected, it was their ability to handle adversity that impressed me most. On the other hand, Dela Rama put up a valiant effort for the Stags with a double-double of 20 points and 15 boards, while Onell Castor listed 13 points. I remember thinking during that game, "This is what separates good teams from great ones." Southern Mississippi didn’t just shut down Dela Rama—they adapted, tightened their defense in the final quarter, and turned what could have been a loss into a statement win. It’s moments like these that build momentum, and honestly, I think this team has tapped into something special. Their defensive rotations, which I’ve tracked in my own notes, have improved by nearly 18% since last season, allowing an average of just 68.2 points per game compared to last year’s 79.5. That’s not just numbers; it’s a cultural shift.
What I find particularly compelling is how Southern Mississippi has balanced offensive firepower with unselfish play. They’re not relying on one superstar to carry them—instead, it’s a collective effort, with players stepping up in different games. For instance, in that same matchup where Dela Rama dominated the stat sheet for the Stags, Southern Mississippi had three players scoring in double figures, showcasing their distributed scoring approach. I’ve always preferred teams that play this way because it makes them harder to scout and more resilient in postseason play. Their ball movement has been crisp, averaging around 22 assists per game, which, if you ask me, is a testament to the coaching staff’s emphasis on fundamentals. I spoke with a few insiders, and they mentioned that the team’s practice sessions focus heavily on situational drills—something that’s clearly paying off in clutch moments.
Of course, no rise to success is without its challenges, and Southern Mississippi has had its share. Early in the season, they struggled with consistency, especially on the road where they posted a 5-3 record in away games. I recall one particular loss where turnovers were the culprit—they gave up the ball 17 times, leading to 24 points for the opposition. But here’s the thing: they learned from it. Over the next few weeks, they cut that average down to just 11 turnovers per game, a improvement that I attribute to their veteran leadership. Having covered this team for years, I can say that the current roster’s maturity is a game-changer. Players aren’t just playing for stats; they’re buying into a system, and it shows in their late-game execution. For example, in close contests decided by five points or fewer, they’ve won four out of five this season, compared to just two wins in similar situations last year. That’s a 80% success rate in tight games—a stat that screams mental toughness.
Off the court, the support from the community has been incredible, and I’ve seen firsthand how that energy translates to the hardwood. Attendance at home games has jumped by roughly 22% this season, with an average crowd of 8,500 fans packing the arena. That kind of atmosphere can intimidate opponents and fuel comebacks, and I’ve noticed Southern Mississippi feeding off that energy in key moments. It reminds me of why I fell in love with college basketball—the passion is palpable, and it’s driving this team to overachieve. From a strategic perspective, their use of analytics has also been sharp; they’re shooting 47% from the field and 38% from beyond the arc, numbers that place them in the top tier of their conference. Personally, I think their three-point shooting has been the X-factor, especially in spreading the floor and creating driving lanes.
As the season progresses, I’m optimistic about Southern Mississippi’s chances in the postseason. They’ve built a resume that includes wins over three ranked opponents, and their RPI ranking has climbed to the top 40 nationally. In my view, this isn’t a fluke—it’s the result of a well-executed plan and a roster that plays with heart. Sure, they might not have the blue-chip recruits some powerhouses boast, but they’ve developed talent in-house, and that’s something I respect deeply. Looking ahead, if they can maintain their defensive intensity and keep sharing the ball, I wouldn’t be surprised to see them make a deep run in the tournament. After all, basketball is as much about chemistry as it is about skill, and this team has both in spades.
