'One of The Best Environments in College Basketball': Rebels' Chris Beard Applauds Home-Court Advantage vs. Bulldogs

The Ole Miss Rebels got the job done on the hardwood against the Mississippi State Bulldogs on Tuesday night with a little help from their home crowd.

OXFORD, Miss. -- The Ole Miss Rebels sent the Mississippi State Bulldogs home sad on Tuesday night, as they beat their in-state rival 86-82 in the Sandy and John Black Pavilion, but it would not have been possible without the help of their electric home crowd.

The Ole Miss faithful were out in full force for the rivalry game, as the Rebels set a new SJB attendance record with 10,630 fans packed into the arena. Ole Miss' home-court advantage has been a big part of its success recently, as the Rebels are still undefeated at home this season with a 12-game win streak. Beard made sure to thank the Ole Miss fans and students who helped make Tuesday night special during his post game press conference.

Carleigh Harbin-The Grove Report

"One of the best environments in college basketball," Beard told reporters. "Record attendance here at the Pavilion, which really starts with our student body getting here early, and not only coming to the game but bringing the energy. That was pretty cool. Been fortunate to coach in a lot of great environments over the years, and tonight was special. We're building something here."

Beard has brought excitement to a basketball program that has historically not been a top priority for Ole Miss fans, and they have shown up in droves to witness the revitalization of college hoops in Oxford. Beard talked about the work that has gone into creating this unprecedented home-court advantage.

'My Time!' TJ Caldwell, Jaylen Murray Fuel Win vs. Mississippi State

"A lot of work," Beard said. "It starts with a vision. Let's get into this game of men's basketball in the SEC, and let's try to be a part of the fight. If you want to win the fight, you have to get in the fight, and I think we're doing that... A lot of people went into this. It's not a one or two man deal. A lot of people have worked on this and we're super appreciative."

The Rebels will get another chance to flex their home-court advantage on Saturday when they hosts the No. 16 Auburn Tigers in the SJB Pavilion. Tip-off is set for 5:00 p.m. CT, and the game will be televised on SEC Network.