Yuan Nichols | Sports Journalist

Tigers lock in defensively and cruise to 80–60 win after early statement run

Jackson, Miss. — February 16, 2026

Jackson State wasted no time setting the tone.

As he has done all season, Daeshun Ruffin opened the night aggressively, scoring seven quick points in the opening minutes to ignite the Tigers’ offense. Florida A&M tried to settle in, but Jackson State’s defensive intensity and pace quickly created separation.

After a FAMU push early, JSU responded with a 7–0 run that shifted momentum for good. The run featured a steal and breakaway dunk from Ruffin, followed by a smooth drop-off assist that led to an easy layup. From there, the Tigers never looked back.

Jackson State’s defense was suffocating in the first half, forcing tough shots and limiting Florida A&M’s rhythm in the half court. The Rattlers shot just 32% from the field and 20% from three for the game, struggling to find consistency against JSU’s pressure.

Meanwhile, Darian McMillian provided elite perimeter shooting, knocking down three triples and finishing with 13 points. His ability to stretch the floor opened driving lanes for Ruffin and Javonte Mitchell Jr., who added 14 points.

At the break, Jackson State held a commanding 37–23 lead.

The second half only widened the gap.

Ruffin came out of halftime in attack mode, scoring six straight baskets to immediately extend the advantage. Whether it was mid-range pull-ups, strong finishes at the rim, or pushing in transition, he dictated the tempo.

Ruffin finished with 25 points, nine rebounds, and six assists, stuffing the stat sheet while controlling the game. Jalen Tatum added 15 points off the bench, while Dionte Thomas chipped in 11 points and nine rebounds.

Jackson State shot 48% from the field and built the lead to as many as 25 in the second half. Florida A&M tried to trade baskets late, led by Miles Octave’s 16 points and Kashif Washington’s 14, but the deficit proved too large to overcome.

By the final buzzer, it was all Tigers — an 80–60 statement win.

With balanced scoring, disciplined defense, and Ruffin continuing to play at an elite level, Jackson State looks locked in as postseason play approaches.