Mississippi State guard had the biggest night of his life on the court on Wednesday, dropping a new career-high 46 points and setting a program record for made threes in a single game as the Bulldogs took down Auburn 91-85.
On Thursday, Hubbard was recognized for the work he’s done in his home state off the court.
Hubbard was announced as the recipient of the 2026 Coach Wooden Citizenship Cup Award, recognizing Hubbard’s impact in community service.
“We are thrilled to congratulate Josh on being named the 2026 Coach Wooden Citizenship Cup Award winner,” MSU athletic director Zac Selmon said. “This recognition reflects the impact he has made through his leadership, academic dedication, and engagement beyond the court. To be honored in the name of Coach John Wooden speaks to Josh’s character and the way he represents Mississippi State every day. We are proud of all he accomplishes and grateful for the example he sets for our student-athletes and community.”
Hubbard has shown a strong awareness of his ability to impact lives outside of basketball, and in his time at MSU, he has taken part in several opportunities to fuel community-driven initiatives with his personal platform and NIL resources. Over the last two years, the Josh Hubbard Showcase has played host to around 200 young athletes in his hometown of Madison, Mississippi, and awarded approximately $40,000 in scholarship money.
This season, Hubbard signed on for a new “Buckets for Wishes” campaign with the Make-A-Wish Mississippi organization, raising money from donors and sponsors pledged to each three-point basket he makes during the 2025-26 season. He also took time during the holiday season to visit with patients at the Children’s of Mississippi Hospital in Jackson, and teamed up with Aerus and US Foods to provide food and donations for the Ballas Family Community Kitchen in Greenwood.
“This award means a lot to our program because it recognizes who Josh is at his core,” State Head Coach Chris Jans said. “He cares about people, he works at his academics, and he leads with humility. Being honored in Coach John Wooden’s name is special, and it couldn’t happen to a more deserving young man. We’re proud of him, and we’re thankful for the way he represents Mississippi State on and off the court.”
Hubbard will be formally presented with the award on Saturday, Feb. 28, ahead of MSU’s game against Missouri at Humphrey Coliseum.
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