WATCH: MISS STATE FALLS IN NIT FINALS TO MEMPHIS, 77-64

Cameron Matthews and Deivon Smith pumped in career-high scoring performances en route to a combined 36 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists as Mississippi State dropped a 77-64 decision to Memphis in Sunday’s NIT Championship Game at the Comerica Center.

Mississippi State (18-15) made its 3rd straight appearance when postseason tournaments have been played and reached the NIT Finals for the first time in program history. Matthews sparked State’s offensive effort and piled up 11 of his career-best 19 points during the 1st half. He connected on 3 of his six field goals from 3-point territory and was 4-of-6 at the foul line. It marked Matthews’ first double-digit scoring output in the Maroon and White. The Olive Branch native also came one shy of his career-high with six rebounds and dished out three assists.

Matthews along with point guard Deivon Smith who had 17 of his own points, joined Mississippi State head basketball coach Ben Howland postgame to discuss the loss-and the season. Video is courtesy of Hail State Athletics.