Wichita State center Quincy Ballard transfers to Mississippi State

STARKVILLE — Mississippi State basketball fans, meet your new rim protector.

Just hours after losing key big man KeShawn Murphy to the transfer portal, the Bulldogs bounced back in a big way. Quincy Ballard, a 6-foot-11 senior center from Wichita State, announced he’s heading to Starkville, giving head coach Chris Jans a much-needed anchor in the paint for the 2025-26 season.

Ballard isn’t just a body in the post — he’s a seasoned veteran with results to show for it. Starting all 33 games for Wichita State last season, Ballard averaged 10 points and 9.2 rebounds per game while shooting a jaw-dropping 75.1% from the field — the highest single-season mark in Shockers history. His 62 dunks also set a program record, underscoring his dominance around the rim. In a frontcourt suddenly thin on experience, Ballard instantly becomes a focal point.

The timing of Ballard’s commitment couldn’t be more crucial. MSU has seen an exodus from its frontcourt — with Murphy, Michael Nwoko, and Jeremy Foumena all exiting the program. Ballard brings size, athleticism, and a shot-blocking presence that Mississippi State desperately needs. Alongside incoming freshmen Tee Bartlett and Jamarion Davis-Fleming, he provides balance and leadership for a team entering a pivotal transition phase.

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At 24 years old, Ballard enters Mississippi State with maturity and experience rare in today’s college game. After stops at Florida State and Wichita State, he knows how to adapt and compete. His commitment marks the second portal addition for Jans, following UAB guard Ja’Borri McGhee. With star guard Josh Hubbard still weighing his NBA Draft decision, MSU’s roster is in flux — but Ballard’s presence adds immediate stability.

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Bulldog fans craving toughness and tenacity in the paint just got their guy. Quincy Ballard isn’t coming to Starkville to rebuild — he’s coming to lead. With his rim-rocking dunks, high-efficiency scoring, and veteran edge, Mississippi State’s frontcourt just got a whole lot harder to handle.

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