Key Performers:
- Missouri (12-3, 1-1 SEC):
- Tamar Bates: 20 points, 8 rebounds, a perfect 8-for-8 from the free-throw line, and 2-for-4 from 3-point range.
- Anthony Robinson II: 16 points, 4 assists, also 6-for-6 from the free-throw line and 2-for-3 from beyond the arc.
- Marques Warrick: 12 points, contributing to Missouri’s balanced scoring effort.
- Mark Mitchell and Caleb Grill: Added 11 and 10 points, respectively, with Grill hitting key 3-pointers.
- LSU (11-4, 0-2 SEC):
- Cam Carter: Led LSU with 16 points.
- Curtis Givens III: Added 15 points in the losing effort.
Game Highlights:
Missouri bounced back from a tough loss to No. 2 Auburn with an impressive home win over LSU, extending their home winning streak to 12 games. Tamar Bates and Anthony Robinson II led the way, combining for 36 points and hitting all 14 of their free-throw attempts.
Missouri built a commanding 42-27 halftime lead behind the scoring of Robinson (12 points) and Bates (8 points). Bates carried the momentum into the second half with eight quick points, including back-to-back dunks, as the Tigers stretched their lead to 57-36. LSU managed to narrow the deficit to 66-54 but couldn’t mount a significant comeback.
Key Takeaways:
- Missouri: The Tigers shot 48% (12-for-25) from 3-point range and executed well at the free-throw line, hitting 17 of 19 attempts. Their defensive effort, coupled with balanced scoring, helped them control the game throughout.
- LSU: The Tigers struggled defensively, allowing Missouri to dictate the pace and shoot efficiently from deep. While Cam Carter and Curtis Givens III provided scoring, LSU’s inability to contain Bates and Robinson proved costly.
Key Moment:
- Early in the second half, Tamar Bates scored eight points during a decisive 15-9 surge, capped by consecutive dunks, to extend Missouri’s lead to 57-36. This run effectively put the game out of LSU’s reach.
Key Stat:
- Free-Throw Perfection: Bates and Robinson combined to go 14-for-14 from the line, contributing to Missouri’s near-flawless 17-for-19 team performance.
What’s Next:
- Missouri: Hosts Vanderbilt on Saturday, aiming to extend their home winning streak.
- LSU: Travels to face No. 23 Mississippi on Saturday, seeking to snap a two-game losing skid.
Missouri’s ability to bounce back with a strong performance at home underscores their potential as a contender in the SEC, while LSU faces challenges in finding consistency on both ends of the court.
