If you're a Missouri basketball fan, the memory of that 26-point drubbing at Alabama might soon be a little less painful. According to a recent report by college athletics insider Ross Dellenger, the NCAA selection committee is considering a noteworthy development that could benefit Missouri's tournament hopes.
The committee is looking at the fact that Alabama's victories over Auburn, Texas A&M, and Missouri featured an ineligible player, Charles Bediako. Bediako, who went undrafted in 2023, signed multiple NBA contracts, including a two-way deal with the San Antonio Spurs. His college return was cut short after a judge denied his motion for a preliminary injunction against the NCAA, ending his season after just five games.
One of those games was Alabama's 90-64 win over Missouri, where Bediako contributed significantly with 16 points and six rebounds. With the possibility of this game being excluded from Missouri's record, the Tigers' tournament resume could see a boost.
Currently, Missouri is teetering on the edge of the NCAA Tournament bubble with an 18-8 record. Removing this loss could be a game-changer.
Analytics from BartTorvik suggest that without the Alabama game, Missouri's chances of making the tournament jump by 6.1%. That would elevate them from an 11-seed in the First Four to a 10-seed, avoiding those early games in Dayton.
While these are just projections, and the actual selection process remains a mystery, it's clear that every edge counts for teams on the bubble. Missouri will still need to finish the season strong, likely needing a couple more wins to solidify their spot in the tournament.
In the world of college basketball, where every win and loss can tip the scales, this potential adjustment could be just the lift Missouri needs. For now, Tigers fans can hold onto a bit of hope as the selection committee deliberates.