STARKVILLE, Miss. — Mississippi State women’s basketball coach Sam Purcell delivered his trademark enthusiasm at SEC Tipoff ’26, setting the tone for what he hopes will be a defining fourth season in Starkville. Speaking to reporters, Purcell radiated confidence about the Bulldogs’ direction, emphasizing culture, competition, and connection.
Opening Remarks: “Drive” Defines the Season
Purcell opened his remarks by introducing the team’s theme for 2025–26 — “Drive.” He said the word reflects the spirit of a program that continues to push forward through passion and hard work.
He credited Mississippi State’s loyal fan base, which has ranked in the top 25 nationally for attendance for ten consecutive years. “When you wear that Mississippi State uniform, it means something,” he said. “Our fans drive from all over the state to support us, and we play for them.”
Purcell also highlighted the program’s sustained success — three straight 20-win seasons, three postseason appearances, and a top-10 recruiting class, the second-best in team history. “We’ve built a foundation,” he said, “and that drive doesn’t stop now.”
Acknowledging the SEC’s depth, Purcell pointed out that five of the top 10 preseason teams come from the conference. “This is the best league in women’s basketball,” he said. “If you don’t bring it every night, you’ll get embarrassed. We understand that challenge, and we’re ready for it.”
On Handling Roster Turnover
When asked about navigating roster changes, Purcell said it comes down to relationships. “This profession is about people,” he explained. “When you connect with your players, you create something special. That’s what I’m most proud of — the moments of connection that build our culture.”
On International Transfer Favour Nwaedozi
Purcell praised new international addition Favour Nwaedozi, calling her “a blessing to this program.” He described her journey from Africa to Japan to Mississippi as remarkable and said she brings infectious energy and intensity. “When she walks into a room, you feel it,” he said. “She has a motor that never stops.”
On Transfers Kharyssa Richardson and Saniyah King
The Bulldogs’ two high-profile transfers, Saniyah King and Kharyssa Richardson, are expected to make immediate impacts.
King, a sophomore from Howard University and MEAC Freshman of the Year, impressed early with her conditioning, strength, and leadership. “She’s embraced being our point guard and an extension of me on the court,” Purcell said.
Richardson, who previously played for Auburn and Ole Miss, will have a bigger role in Starkville. “She’s been through great programs, and now it’s her time,” Purcell said. “I’d compare her to Maïsha Hines-Allen — a true competitor. She’s the kind of player every coach wants.”
On the Value of Experience
Purcell noted that while experience is valuable, it can sometimes lead to complacency. “You can’t assume last year’s success carries over,” he said. “What I love about this group is their hunger — they show up every day wanting to get better.”
He added that being underestimated is an advantage: “Nobody’s talking about us, and that’s fine. It fuels our fire. We’ve got a chip on our shoulder, and that’s the best thing a coach can ask for.”
On Using Preseason Predictions as Motivation
Purcell uses outside opinions as fuel. “I tell my players, ‘Bring it,’” he said. “This is what people are saying — now let’s prove them wrong.”
He explained that the Bulldogs’ focus is on growth through adversity. “We have to fail fast and learn quick,” he said. “Our goal is simple: go 1-0 each game. Beat Davidson, then move on to the next. You do that, and success takes care of itself.”
