Missouri Tigers Pull Off Thrilling Upset Against Vanderbilt
In a nail-biter at Mizzou Arena, the Missouri Tigers managed to fend off No. 19 Vanderbilt, claiming an 81-80 victory that had fans on the edge of their seats. Despite seeing a formidable 21-point lead dwindle to a single point in the final seconds, the Tigers held their ground as Vanderbilt's Tyler Tanner missed a halfcourt shot at the buzzer.
Missouri’s Long-Range Success
Missouri's performance from beyond the arc was a game-changer. After a lackluster showing in their previous matchup against Texas, the Tigers doubled their 3-point attempts, shooting 10-of-20 for a solid 50%. Five different players contributed from deep, showcasing a balanced offensive attack.
Graduate guard Jayden Stone led the charge with a standout performance, scoring 19 points and hitting 4-of-6 from three-point range. Stone emphasized the importance of a balanced team effort, noting that such performances have been key against top-ranked teams.
Sophomore guard T.O. Barrett also made his mark, continuing to find success from long range in SEC play.
Trent Burns: The Unsung Hero
Freshman center Trent Burns may have scored only three points, but his impact was undeniable. With a game-high +19 in just 18 minutes, Burns' presence was felt on both ends of the court. His towering 7-foot-5 frame helped him dominate the boards, tying for game-high honors with seven rebounds.
Coach Dennis Gates praised Burns for his preparation and performance, while teammate Jayden Stone commended his steady demeanor and readiness.
Navigating the Press
Vanderbilt’s relentless press nearly turned the tide, as Mizzou struggled with turnovers late in the game. The Tigers saw their lead shrink drastically due to seven turnovers in the final minutes. Junior forward Trent Pierce acknowledged the need for better decision-making under pressure.
Tournament Prospects
Mizzou's victory keeps them in the mix for a tournament spot, now boasting an 18-8 record and sitting sixth in the SEC standings. With crucial games ahead, the Tigers are focused on solidifying their postseason chances.
They face Arkansas next, with a chance to further strengthen their resume.
Tilmon Joins Team USA
In other news, former Tiger Jeremiah Tilmon has been named to USA Basketball’s roster for upcoming World Cup qualifiers. Tilmon, who played at Missouri from 2017-20, continues to make strides in his professional career, currently with the Milwaukee Bucks’ G-League affiliate.
As the Tigers look ahead, their recent victory serves as a testament to their resilience and potential for the rest of the season.