Tolu Smith reportedly set to make anticipated return against Bethune-Cookman

Tolu Smith is back.

The standout Mississippi State center suffered a foot injury preseason that has kept him out of the Bulldogs’ non-conference slate. However, MSU head coach Chris Jans and Co. anticipated that Smith could return before the start of SEC play.

And the timing seems to work out perfect for the All-SEC talent. Smith will return 1 game before the start of conference play against Bethune-Cookman on Sunday, a perfect buffer ahead of the Bulldogs’ SEC opener against South Carolina on January 6.

Mississippi State’s Tolu Smith (foot) will be available for Sunday’s game against Bethune-Cookman, per Chris Jans.

Averaged 15.7 PPG and 8.5 RPG last season.

Has yet to play this season.

Significant SEC News.

— Jon Rothstein (@JonRothstein) December 30, 2023

Smith’s return is massive for Mississippi State, if that doesn’t go without saying. The 6-11 center nearly averaged a double-double last season and was one of the best rebounders in the sport. He’s also a magnet for fouls, an efficient shooter and a capable defender. Smith isn’t a stretch-5, but Mississippi State doesn’t need him to be.

And mixed with West Virginia transfer Jimmy Bell, Mississippi State is going to be a serious problem in the SEC this season. The Bulldogs are legitimate SEC title contenders should Smith’s transition back to the lineup go well.

Bethune-Cookman is the worst team Mississippi State will face all season. The Bulldogs and Wildcats will face off at 3 p.m. ET on ESPN+

Ethan Stone

Ethan Stone is a Tennessee graduate and loves all things college football and college basketball. Firm believer in fouling while up 3.