Missouri Tigers Outpaced by Lady Volunteers in High-Scoring Affair
The Missouri Tigers faced a challenging contest against the Tennessee Lady Volunteers, culminating in a 69-80 defeat. The Tigers now hold a record of 0-1, while the Lady Volunteers advance with a 1-0 standing. The game unfolded at Thompson-Boling Arena, where the home team capitalized on their opportunities to secure victory.
The Missouri Tigers started strong with an impressive offensive display, scoring 17 points in both the first and second quarters. However, they were outscored by the Lady Volunteers who put up an imposing 28 points in the opening quarter and maintained their lead throughout the game. Despite matching their opponents' energy early on, it was not enough to overcome Tennessee's consistent performance across all four quarters.
Offensively, Missouri showcased resilience and skill with a field goal percentage of 47 and converting eight out of twenty-two three-point attempts for a solid three-point percentage of 36. They also demonstrated efficiency from the free-throw line making seven out of nine attempts which translates to an impressive free throw percentage of 78. The team's ability to score inside was evident as they racked up 34 points in paint.
On defense, however, Missouri struggled to contain Tennessee's sharpshooters who managed an even higher field goal percentage at 51 percent from the floor and matched Missouri's eight three-pointers made. Additionally, Tennessee dominated inside scoring with a substantial total of 44 points in paint compared to Missouri's effort.
A standout statistic for Missouri was their fast break performance where they accumulated seventeen fast break points showcasing their ability to capitalize on quick transitions. However, this was closely matched by Tennessee’s eighteen fast break points indicating how neck-and-neck these moments were during gameplay.
While turnovers often change games' dynamics significantly; here both teams managed them relatively well with thirteen turnovers for Missouri against nine for Tennessee. Yet it was perhaps assists where one could see part of what set these teams apart: nine assists were recorded by Missouri whereas Tennessee doubled that number reaching eighteen assists which contributed greatly to their fluid offense throughout all four quarters.
Looking ahead after this tough loss on foreign ground; fans can turn their attention toward another challenging matchup as the away team - The Missouri Tigers - will face off against South Carolina Gamecocks at Colonial Life Arena located in Columbia (SC). This upcoming game is scheduled for February eighth at six PM Central Time and will be broadcast nationally on SEC Network channel six hundred eleven ensuring fans won't miss any action as these two teams clash on court once again.