Gamethread: No. 14 Mizzou vs Bradley

No. 14 Mizzou takes the court for the first time since their massive Braggin Rights win. In their final game before conference play, the Tigers welcome a talented Bradley Braves that will come into Mizzou Arena thinking upset.

Second Half Notes

• Bradley seems to just want this game more after halftime. They are working harder and playing with more energy.
• If Mizzou loses this game, they have no one to blame but themselves. They look careless tonight.
• Jayson Kent took over this game for a quick stretch and the Tigers have to do better than let him be as open as he was throughout that sequence.
• When Bradley started to score, Mizzou just started trying to force things. They look like they think they are outmatched.
• Tilly has done a great job in the second half scoring down low.
• It seemed like the Tigers finally woke up when they got down 8, but it shouldn’t have to take that situation.
• That 3 that Mark Smith took as time wound down was very questionable shooting. It’s curious as to why they didn’t call timeout, and/or getting the ball to Tilly down low.
• That last sequence really bailed out the poor shot selection to start. Tilly has been the MVP of this game with a phenomenal second half.
• Mitch Smith really wanted all Tigers fans to sweat a little bit longer.

First Half Notes

• As usual, the Tiger came out shooting way too many threes.
• 2-2 at the first media timeout is making this one look like it will be a real barn-burner.
• Whoever can make the first big run will get a stronghold on this game.
• Both teams aren’t just missing jump shots, a lot of layups aren’t falling for either team. The Tigers need to hope this play doesn’t carry over to SEC play.
• Boya going to the bench opened up the paint up a little bit more, but this team defends in the paint very well.
• Mizzou has gotten pretty lucky that Bradley started 0-11 from three. They have been playing good defense, but the Braves have missed some good looks.
• The Tigers are letting up too many offensive boards, way too many. At the half, Bradley has 13. That’s atrocious.
• If Pinson can make defenders respect his shooting from the top of the key, he will be close to unguardable.

>>>Read our Preview of the Game Here<<<

The Details

Opponent: Braves (6-2)

Time: 6:00 p.m. CT

Where: Mizzou Arena, Columbia, Missouri

Is Mizzou Receiving Top 25 Votes? Yes. The Tigers are ranked No. 14

What Does Vegas Say? Mizzou, -11

Where To Watch: SEC Network | WatchESPN

Radio: Tiger Radio Network // Sirius/XM -119/199

Twitter: @MizzouHoops

Facebook: Mizzou Men’s Basketball

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Five Questions!

1. Will Mark Smith bounce back after a rough Braggin Rights?
2. Can Tilly stay out of foul trouble after having some issues in the last couple of games?
3. Will the Tigers cover?
4. Who is your trifecta for the game?
5. What will the final score be?