Opinion
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Clash of the Tigers and Rebels: Showdown at Mizzou Arena

As the Missouri Tigers prepare to host the Ole Miss Rebels at Mizzou Arena, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be an electrifying encounter. The upcoming game, scheduled for March 2nd, is a chance for the Tigers to assert their dominance on their home court.


Mar 4, 2023; Columbia, Missouri, USA; Mississippi Rebels guard Matthew Murrell (11) shoots a layup as Missouri Tigers guard Kobe Brown (24) defends during the first half at Mizzou Arena. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Looking back at recent performances, it's clear that Missouri has had its ups and downs. A tough game against the Tennessee Volunteers on February 21st saw them fall just short, with a final score of 67-72. Despite this loss, there were positive takeaways; notably their three-point shooting percentage stood at a respectable 37 percent and they managed to keep turnovers equal to Tennessee's at 15 each.


However, it was in another recent match-up where Missouri truly shined. On February 18th against Mississippi State Bulldogs in Oxford – ironically enough – they came out victorious with a scoreline of 76-79. Their free throw accuracy was impressive at an outstanding rate of 83 percent and they capitalized on turnovers by scoring 19 points off them.


Mar 4, 2023; Columbia, Missouri, USA; The Missouri Tigers cheerleaders perform against the Mississippi Rebels during the first half at Mizzou Arena. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

The Tigers' resilience will be tested once more as they face Ole Miss Rebels who have shown they can put up big numbers from beyond the arc, hitting an impressive rate of three-pointers in their last game (52 percent). This could spell trouble for Missouri if they don't tighten up their perimeter defense.


Missouri must also focus on improving points from paint and second-chance opportunities which were areas where they lagged behind in previous games. With home-court advantage this time around though, there's every reason to believe that MIZZ can turn those statistics around.


Jan 24, 2023; Oxford, Mississippi, USA; Missouri Tigers guard Sean East II (55) passes the ball as Mississippi Rebels guard Tye Fagan (14) defends during the first half at The Sandy and John Black Pavilion at Ole Miss. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports

The key battle will likely be decided by which team can maintain composure under pressure and execute during critical moments; something MIZZ has demonstrated capability in doing especially when playing before their home crowd.


Fans should expect nothing less than full-throttle intensity from start to finish as both teams vie for conference bragging rights. It's going to be about who wants it more – and judging by past performances – Missouri is ready to rise up to the challenge.


Mark your calendars for March 2nd at 7:30 PM CT when these two teams go head-to-head in Columbia’s own Mizzou Arena. For those unable to attend in person, catch all the action live on SEC Network channel number 611 where you'll witness every dribble, pass, and shot as these collegiate athletes battle it out on court.

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