Mississippi State Guard Josh Hubbard Returns to Practice
Josh Hubbard practiced in a limited capacity on Monday following a head injury that sidelined him for a recent exhibition game.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Basketball
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Mississippi State guard Josh Hubbard returned to practice in a non-contact capacity on Monday after missing the exhibition game against NC State. Hubbard had been unavailable due to a head injury.
Why it matters
Hubbard is a key member of the Mississippi State basketball program, and his absence was felt during the team's narrow loss to NC State. His return to the court is a significant development for the team as they prepare for upcoming matchups.
In the exhibition game against NC State, Mississippi State struggled from distance, shooting 5-23 from three-point range. The team was led in scoring by TJ Simpkins with 20 points, RJ Johnson with 15 points, and King Grace with 10 points.
The players
Josh Hubbard
He is a guard for the Mississippi State basketball team who recently participated in SEC Basketball Media Days.
Mississippi State
This is a public research university located in Starkville that competes in the Southeastern Conference.
NC State
This is a public university located in Raleigh that fields competitive athletic teams in the Atlantic Coast Conference.
TJ Simpkins
He is a basketball player for Mississippi State who led his team in scoring during the exhibition game.
Kimani Hamilton
He is a student-athlete for Mississippi State who provided significant rebounding support in the recent exhibition contest.
The details
Hubbard participated in limited practice drills on Monday as he continues his recovery from a head injury. He was previously sidelined for the team's 77-73 loss to NC State, a contest where Kimani Hamilton contributed seven rebounds.
Timeline
Last week: Josh Hubbard attended SEC Basketball Media Days.
Sunday, October 18, 2026: Josh Hubbard missed the exhibition game against NC State.
Monday, October 19, 2026: Josh Hubbard returned to non-contact practice.
Friday, October 23, 2026: Josh Hubbard is expected to play.
Season Trajectory
The return of a core player like Hubbard provides critical stability for Mississippi State as they move past their opening exhibition loss. Integrating him back into the rotation is essential for the team to improve their perimeter shooting and overall efficiency before conference play.
Hubbard's expected return for the Friday matchup should alleviate the scoring burden placed on TJ Simpkins, who shot 0-6 from three-point range in the exhibition loss. Improved depth in the backcourt will be crucial for the team's offensive spacing after their 5-23 performance from deep.
The takeaway
Monitoring the health of key rotational players remains a critical aspect of early-season college basketball preparations. Fans should look for how coaching staff balances conditioning and game readiness when players return from concussion-related protocols.
What happens next
Josh Hubbard is expected to play in the upcoming game scheduled for Friday, October 23, 2026.
Further reading
For more on the team's progress this season, visit the Starkville Basketball page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by On3.
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