STARKVILLE – A big victory on the court is fun for any college basketball player, but it’s still sweet for athletes when they’re able to achieve milestone moments during their careers.
Mississippi State standout D.J. Jeffries did just that in the Bulldogs’ 64-53 victory over LSU on Wednesday, and heads into Saturday’s game at Arkansas as the latest MSU player to score at least 1,000 collegiate points. The starting forward tallied a season-high 18 points in the LSU contest, going 5-for-6 from behind the arc while pulling down seven boards and dishing out four assists. He has now totaled 521 points while sporting the Maroon and White to go along with 482 points scored during his two seasons at the University of Memphis.
“Words can‘t describe it,” Jeffries said. “I‘ve been working so hard, you know, to finally get some shots [to go in].”
Jeffries ignited Humphrey Coliseum early, scoring six of the Bulldogs’ first 10 points on a pair of 3s within the first three minutes of the game. However, it wasn‘t just Jeffries’ offensive contributions that gave the Bulldogs an advantage. When the shots weren‘t falling as easily, Jeffries stood out on defense and helped to control the game heading into halftime by snagging rebounds and making crucial steals.
When Mississippi State returned to the court from the locker room, Jeffries continued to help put the game away for good. He hit two more timely 3s to cushion the Bulldogs’ lead as the half went on, showing no hesitation to take — and drain — the open shots.
“I just came out with confidence, and when I got it I just called it,” Jeffries said. “I didn‘t hesitate or even think about it. I just shot it with confidence.”
The senior was well aware of his standings in the record books and just how much he needed to do to score his 1,000th point. When the ball left his hand and swished through the hoop for his fifth 3-pointer in the final minutes of the game, Jeffries knew that he had finally done it.
“Once I got down the points, you know, it was a big relief, and that‘s a big milestone in my career,” Jeffries said. “I‘m proud to be a thousand-point scorer.”
Jeffries’ huge accomplishment was well received by Bulldogs fans. They rose to their feet for a standing ovation when the news became official. Head coach Chris Jans was not initially aware of what The Hump‘s…
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