STARKVILLE, Miss. – As the 2025-26 college basketball season tips off, all eyes in Starkville are on the new, towering presence anchoring the paint for Mississippi State. Quincy Ballard, a 7-foot, 250-pound center, has arrived in the SEC for his final year of eligibility, and he brings with him a reputation for veteran leadership and extraordinary efficiency.
In the Bulldogs’ season-opening 86-62 victory against North Alabama on Wednesday, Ballard gave fans a solid glimpse of what to expect. In his official debut, he was a perfect 4-for-4 from the field, finishing with eight points and seven rebounds.
While the stat line may seem modest, it represents the exact brand of high-percentage, reliable basketball that head coach Chris Jans targeted in the transfer portal.
Ballard’s journey to Mississippi State has been a winding one. A native of Syracuse, New York, he began his collegiate career at Florida State, where he played two seasons from 2020 to 2022. He then transferred to Wichita State, where he truly developed into a dominant interior force.
His 2024-25 campaign with the Shockers was a breakout season. Starting all 33 games, Ballard nearly averaged a double-double with 10.0 points and 9.2 rebounds per game. Most notably, he established himself as one of the most efficient players in the nation, setting a Wichita State single-season program record with a staggering 75.1% field goal percentage.
His dominance around the rim was relentless. He also set a program record with 62 dunks, showcasing the explosive athleticism that makes him a constant lob threat and an imposing defensive figure. His 1.9 blocks per game underscored his value as a premier rim protector.
Following his standout year, Ballard declared for the 2025 NBA Draft last spring, testing the professional waters. However, he ultimately withdrew his name and entered the transfer portal, seeking a new home to maximize his final season.
Mississippi State, facing significant departures in its own frontcourt, identified Ballard as a top priority. His commitment in April was seen as a major victory for Coach Jans, providing the Bulldogs with a seasoned, plug-and-play center ready to compete in the notoriously physical Southeastern Conference.
“We were looking for an experienced player who could make an immediate impact in the post, and Quincy fits that description perfectly,” a source within the athletic program noted during the preseason. “His efficiency is off the charts. You can’t teach that kind of size combined with that kind of basketball IQ and timing. He knows his game, and he excels at it.”
Ballard’s role with the Bulldogs is clear: control the paint on both ends of the floor. Offensively, he provides a reliable target in the post and a vertical spacer who finishes everything near the basket—a crucial asset for a team looking to open up its perimeter shooting. Defensively, his shot-blocking and rebounding abilities are expected to anchor the team’s entire defensive structure.
As a 24-year-old veteran on his third team, Ballard also brings a level of maturity and experience that is invaluable in a locker room. He joins a roster that has high aspirations, with many experts pegging the Bulldogs as a team capable of making a run in the NCAA Tournament.
His presence is not just about statistics; it’s about stability. In a conference filled with future NBA bigs, Ballard’s proven ability to score without wasting possessions and to alter shots defensively provides a high floor for Mississippi State on a nightly basis.
While the season is just one game old, the addition of Quincy Ballard already feels like one of the most significant offseason moves in the SEC. If his debut is any indication, Bulldog fans can expect a season of high-flying dunks, swatted shots, and, above all, remarkable efficiency.
People Also Want to Know
Who is Quincy Ballard?
Quincy Ballard is a 7-foot American college basketball player who currently plays the center position for the Mississippi State Bulldogs in the SEC. He is in his final year of eligibility for the 2025-26 season.
What team does Quincy Ballard play for?
As of November 2025, Quincy Ballard plays for Mississippi State University.
Where did Quincy Ballard transfer from?
Ballard transferred to Mississippi State from Wichita State University, where he played from 2022 to 2025. He began his collegiate career at Florida State University (2020-2022).
What are Quincy Ballard’s stats?
During his breakout 2024-25 season at Wichita State, Ballard averaged 10.0 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game. He also set a program record by shooting 75.1% from the field.
Is Quincy Ballard going to the NBA?
Ballard declared for the 2025 NBA Draft to test the waters but ultimately withdrew his name to return to college. He will be eligible for the 2026 NBA Draft after completing his final season at Mississippi State.
How tall is Quincy Ballard?
Quincy Ballard is listed as 7 feet 0 inches (213 cm).
What position does Quincy Ballard play?
Quincy Ballard plays the center position.
What is Quincy Ballard known for?
He is known for his elite efficiency, high field goal percentage, shot-blocking, and dunking. He set the single-season record for field goal percentage (75.1%) and dunks (62) at Wichita State.
Where is Quincy Ballard from?
Quincy Ballard is originally from Syracuse, New York.
What was Quincy Ballard’s rating as a recruit?
Coming out of high school (Quality Education Academy), Ballard was generally rated as a three-star prospect by most major recruiting services.
