Mizzou Central

Mizzou loses 91-83 to Kentucky on Senior Night

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Recap of Mizzou Hub Postgame Show – Tigers vs. Kentucky (Senior Night)Hosted by Chris Pelikan and Kareem Rush

The Mizzou Hub Postgame Show broke down Missouri's 91-83 loss to Kentucky on Senior Night, marking their third straight defeat and fourth loss in five games as they head into the SEC Tournament.

Key Takeaways from the Discussion:
  1. Concerns About the Team’s Form
  • The Tigers have struggled recently, and heading into the SEC Tournament with a losing streak is far from ideal.
  • Kareem Rush pointed out that teams have figured out how to neutralize Mizzou’s strengths, particularly by limiting steals and free-throw opportunities.
    1. Caleb Grill’s Role & Defensive Adjustments
    • Kentucky face-guarded Caleb Grill, making it difficult for him to get open looks.
    • The hosts suggested that Mizzou needs to adjust its offense to free up Grill or use him as a decoy.
    • The Tigers also lacked a dominant one-on-one scorer who can create offense when needed.
      1. SEC Tournament Scenarios & Importance of Defense
      • With the recent slump, Mizzou may have to play an extra game in the SEC Tournament, possibly facing Vanderbilt in Nashville.
      • The Tigers' defense has been lacking—giving up 90+ points in multiple games—and needs to improve if they hope to make a deep tournament run.
        1. Senior Night Atmosphere & Player Reflections
        • Reporter Kylee Hansen, on-site in Columbia, described the atmosphere as electric despite the loss.
        • She highlighted the emotional sendoff for seniors like Caleb Grill and Tamar Bates and the strong bond between Grill and coach Dennis Gates.
          1. Optimism vs. Concern Moving Forward
          • Fans expressed frustration in the comments, worrying about the Tigers’ downward trend.
          • Kareem Rush remained optimistic, emphasizing that the team has shown the ability to compete with top teams and can turn things around with a strong SEC Tournament run.
          • Dennis Gates acknowledged the struggles but believes there’s still potential for a deep postseason push.
            1. Betting & Performance Trends
            • Mizzou failed to cover the spread (-3.5) but hit the over (171 points) with late free throws.
            • Earlier in the season, the Tigers were 12-3 against the spread in SEC play but have struggled lately.
              • Looking Ahead

              The Tigers will play in the SEC Tournament on Thursday, with their opponent to be determined. The team needs a strong performance to regain confidence and secure a favorable position for March Madness.

              Final Thoughts
              • Chris Pelikan: While the season has been great overall, the recent struggles are concerning.
              • Kareem Rush: Mizzou can bounce back with a few defensive adjustments and a strong mindset heading into the tournament.

                The show wrapped up with a toast to Mizzou basketball and the upcoming SEC Tournament, hoping for a deep postseason run. M-I-Z!

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                Mizzou CentralBy STL Sports Central