FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (Interstat) — A surging Mississippi State squad looks to continue its push up the Southeastern Conference standings when it visits a struggling Arkansas team on Monday night at Bud Walton Arena. The Lady Bulldogs (17-8) enter on a high note after an 85-71 home victory over Georgia on Thursday. Guard Destiney McPhaul led the way with 18 points and six assists, continuing a strong stretch where she has averaged 9.5 points and 5.5 assists over her last six games. Forward Madison Francis added 17 points and four blocks in the win. Mississippi State has shown resilience, alternating wins and losses over its past six contests but remaining above .500 in a tough league. The victory over Georgia showcased the balanced scoring and defensive effort coach Sam Purcell hopes will carry into the final weeks of the season. Arkansas (11-15), meanwhile, seeks to halt a prolonged slump. The Razorbacks have lost seven consecutive games, most recently an 80-57 defeat at Mississippi on Thursday. Despite the team’s struggles, guard Taleyah Jones has been a consistent bright spot, averaging 19.3 points per game during the losing streak. She scored 16 points in the loss to the Rebels. The Razorbacks have found wins elusive in SEC play, often struggling defensively, allowing an average of 81.1 points during their seven-game skid. Coach Mike Neighbors will need a significant defensive improvement to contain a Mississippi State offense that put up 85 points in its last outing. Historically, games between these two have been competitive, adding intrigue to this late-season matchup. Mississippi State will aim to capitalize on its momentum and superior record, while Arkansas desperately needs a signature conference win to build confidence for the upcoming SEC tournament. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. EST. The game will be broadcast on the SEC Network.