I’m replying as a Mississippi State fan so understand it is from a fan’s perspective. However I’ll try to be as objective as possible. Overall I think there is an argument to be made for MSU to be preseason top five. Honestly I think three is high. Regardless pending any transfers their only loss is J Danberry. She is an incredibly gifted player but there are several other players capable of stepping into her position and role.
As far as star power R Jackson returns as a sophomore after having a very good freshman season. A year in the system and weight room should really help her improve. She is also an alpha. S Cooks and A Matharu also have the ability to take over games. Matharu also has the alpha mentality.
S Cooks, M Hayes, and D Gaston are the newcomers. Cooks should push for a big role. Hayes also has potential to contribute this coming season.
There are still lots of questions such as a starting five and key backups separating themselves from the rest. This past season saw games where a player may play 30 minutes one game then few or none the next game. Coach Schaefer says this team has yet to have an alpha dog emerge that will enforce practice habits and other off the court habits. There are no issues or bad attitudes but just no killers yet. That segways into the fact that the rising seniors are probably solid role players at best and the youngest players are the most talented. Will everyone accept their roles for the betterment of the team?
I don’t know enough about what the other teams at the top lose, gain, and/or have returning to decide how it compares. The one I probably know the most about is South Carolina. They have great talent returning in the starters and backups. They also have a great coach. However I am a big fan of T Harris and M Herbert-Harrigan. Both are very talented and alpha dogs. While I think there are some good players that can fill their role I’m not sure if anyone can play right away like those two.
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