How do you stop Josh Hubbard? It's a question on everyone's mind as he continues to dominate the SEC. With back-to-back 30-point outings and a career-high in points, assists, rebounds, steals, and field-goal percentage, Hubbard is a force to be reckoned with. But how do you slow him down?
The Mississippi State Bulldogs, currently sitting at 10-5, have their work cut out for them. Hubbard's production and efficiency have improved every year, and he's the team leader in assists. He takes and makes shots often, and even when he misses, the Bulldogs maximize second-chance opportunities to give him another chance to score.
The Bulldogs' defense is also a key factor. They get the defense skewed, and their three, four, and five players have embraced the opportunity to capitalize on the skewed spacing and go after the offensive glass. But Hubbard is the priority for any defense and is at the top of every scouting report.
The Bulldogs won't be an easy out in Lexington on Saturday, especially with the Wildcats' current state of 0-2 in league play. Hubbard's impact on the rest of the game and his backcourt is impressive, and his teammates, Jayden Epps and Ja'Borri McGhee, are also real problems. The Bulldogs' center position combined for 18 and 14 rebounds in their last game.
So, how do you stop Hubbard? It's a challenge that the Bulldogs and the rest of the SEC are actively working to answer.