Florida falls to Mississippi State in SEC opener

Jordan McPherson / Alligator StaffWith 49 seconds left, Carlie Needles set her feet and hit a three-pointer to bring Florida within four points.

But despite Needles’ season-best 17 points, the Gators were unable overcome a 19-point deficit and rally in the O’Connell Center on Sunday.

Behind a valiant comeback effort, the Gators (12-2, 0-1 Southeastern Conference) fell to No. 8 Mississippi State (14-1, 1-0 SEC) and lost 70-76.

Mississippi State, which had the game in control from the opening tip until midway through the fourth quarter, was on the ropes towards the end of the game.

There just wasn’t enough time for the Gators.

“I am really proud of the way my team fought, especially in that fourth…