Missouri Tigers fans, buckle up. As the college basketball season heats up, Mizzou is gearing up for a high-stakes showdown against the No. 22-ranked Tennessee Volunteers at Mizzou Arena.
With March Madness on the horizon, every game counts, and the Tigers are eyeing a spot in the tournament. A solid finish to the regular season could be their ticket in, starting with this crucial matchup.
Currently sitting at 18-9 overall and 8-6 in the SEC, Missouri recently edged out Vanderbilt and put up a fight against Arkansas. These performances have propelled them into the projected tournament field, steering clear of the dreaded First Four games in many bracket predictions.
But let's not kid ourselves-Tennessee is no easy opponent. With a 20-7 record and riding high after winning eight of their last nine games, the Vols are a force in the SEC, known for their size and toughness. They’re tied for second in the conference standings, making this a formidable challenge for Mizzou.
For the Tigers, this game is more than just another notch on the schedule; it’s an opportunity to make a statement. A win here could significantly bolster their tournament resume.
The action tips off at 8 p.m. CT at Mizzou Arena, and you can catch it live on the SEC Network.
For those who prefer streaming, FUBO has you covered with a free trial option. Radio listeners can tune into the Tiger Radio Network with Mike Kelly and Chris Gervino calling the game.
In terms of player availability, Missouri will be without forward Jevon Porter, sidelined since December, and Annor Boateng, who’s out for the season. Tennessee’s J.P. Estrella, who missed the last two games, will be a game-time decision.
As for predictions, it’s expected to be a tight contest. Tennessee’s recent form gives them a slight edge, but if Missouri can bring their A-game, an upset is certainly within reach. The Tigers will need to match Tennessee’s physicality and leverage their home-court advantage to pull off the win.
Looking ahead, Missouri faces two road games against lower-ranked teams before wrapping up the regular season at home against Arkansas. Each game is crucial as they aim to solidify their spot in the NCAA Tournament.
Here's hoping for a thrilling game and a step closer to March Madness glory for Mizzou. Let’s see if the Tigers can rise to the occasion and send a message to the rest of the SEC.