Live updates from Mississippi State men's basketball's game vs Minnesota

STARKVILLE — Mississippi State men's basketball didn't like the way it defended in the first half against Lamar. Forward Tolu Smith, especially, decried his first-half performance as the worst in his time with the Bulldogs.

Mississippi State still cruised to victory on Thursday. But in Sunday's matchup with Minnesota (1 p.m., ESPNU), the defensive effort will need to be there from the opening tip.

The Golden Gophers have opened the season 6-0, although there have been close calls against Princeton, Pittsburgh and Western Kentucky. Jamison Battle and Payton Willis lead Minnesota with 17.5 and 16.3 points per game, respectively.

BIG GAME: Rocket Watts has breakout performance for Mississippi State basketball

TUNE IN: How to watch Mississippi State men's basketball vs. Minnesota on TV, live stream

The Bulldogs were encouraged by Rocket Watts' breakout against Lamar, scoring 16 points on 6-for-8 shooting — his best performance since transferring from Michigan State and returning from a hip surgery.

Follow along for live updates between Mississippi State and Minnesota at Humphrey Coliseum.

A Twitter List by afkostka

This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Live updates: Mississippi State men's basketball vs Minnesota