Opinion
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Tigers Set to Pounce on Volunteers in Mizzou Arena Showdown

As the Missouri Tigers prepare to host the Tennessee Volunteers at Mizzou Arena, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be a thrilling encounter. The Tigers have shown resilience and an ability to adapt in their recent games, which could be pivotal against a formidable TENN squad.


Mar 10, 2023; Nashville, TN, USA;  Tennessee Volunteers guard Jahmai Mashack (15) blocks the shot of Missouri Tigers guard Kobe Brown (24) during the second half at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-USA TODAY Sports

Looking back at the December 23rd clash with the Fighting Illini, MIZZ's performance was a mixed bag. Despite falling short by 24 points and committing 23 personal fouls, they demonstrated tenacity in the second half by nearly doubling their first-half point total. Their three-point shooting was lackluster at 22 percent, but they made up for it with a solid 49 percent from inside the arc and an impressive effort on steals with eight takeaways.


In another recent matchup on December 17th against Seton Hall Pirates, MIZZ showcased their offensive prowess by racking up 87 points. Their free-throw accuracy was exceptional at an impressive 86 percent, coupled with a commendable three-point shooting display of 50 percent. However, turnovers were an issue as they gave up possession thirteen times.


Mar 10, 2023; Nashville, TN, USA;  Missouri Tigers guard DeAndre Gholston (4) shoots over Tennessee Volunteers forward Julian Phillips (2) during the second half at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-USA TODAY Sports

Against Kansas Jayhawks earlier in December, Missouri Tigers' defense stood out with five blocks and eight steals but ultimately fell short by nine points. The team struggled from beyond the arc again at just 33 percent while also turning over the ball twelve times.


The upcoming game against TENN will demand that MIZZ leverages its strengths while addressing weaknesses exposed in past performances. The key will be maintaining defensive pressure without accruing excessive fouls and improving ball security to reduce turnovers.


Mar 10, 2023; Nashville, TN, USA;  Missouri Tigers guard Kobe Brown (24) watches as Tennessee Volunteers forward Olivier Nkamhoua (13) guards during the second half at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-USA TODAY Sports

The Volunteers should not underestimate this Tiger team that has shown flashes of brilliance throughout these tough matchups. If Missouri can harness its second-half energy seen against ILL and HALL while tightening up defense without fouling too much, they stand more than just a fighting chance; they could very well dominate on their home court.


Fans eager to support their team can catch all the action live on February 21st when these two teams face off at Mizzou Arena in Columbia, MO. Tip-off is scheduled for prime time viewing pleasure; make sure you tune into SEC Network channel number six hundred eleven or attend in person for what promises to be an electrifying college basketball experience!

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