The UMass Minutemen lead the Mississippi State Bulldogs, 41-31, at halftime from Humphrey Coliseum.

UMass came out of the gates with plenty of energy and jumped out to an 8-0 lead on the Mississippi State in the first half. The Bulldogs were scrambling around the court trying to keep up with the pace of the Minutemen for the whole half. Early shots during possessions and turnovers hurt the Bulldogs and helped UMass built a double-digit lead. Despite a size advantage, Mississippi State was not been able to use it in a halfcourt set as they have tried to run up and down the floor with UMass.

UMass was led in scoring by Chaz Williams who had 11 points. Terrell Vinson chipped in 7 points for the Minutemen. Arnett Moultrie led the Bulldogs with 18 points on 7-9 shooting in the first half.

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