Gates: SEC, NIL, Schedule Boost Mizzou Hoops

0:00On April 30, Missouri Hoops coach Dennis Gates dropped some real talk at a presser before the zoo to you tour hit chicken and pickle. He broke down off-season shifts, starting with the NCAA tournament bumping up to 76 teams. Gates called it a small step forward, saying with over 80 more schools chasing spots, it opens doors for NIL Cash and more championship shots. He's hyped for the SEC, which sent 14 teams last year and 10 the year before. Meanwhile, Gates eyed the 5-5 eligibility rule, focusing first on keeping his own roster tight, like for Trent Pierce, who might snag an extra year. He sees the game evolve in past that, maybe to a total gains play cap over careers, to cut down on waivers. No pause in portal moves, though, recruiting stays hot with top high school and transfer classes rolling in. Players like Jason Crow Jr. bring skills to build around, meshing with the squad, while three high-ranked freshmen join this summer. Gates plans to ease their pressure early.

1:01Fans fill the buzz, too. Three NCAA bids in four years under him signal progress, plus 30 plus wins, and just five losses over the last two seasons. On scheduling, he's pushing harder strength of schedule to nail tournament at large bids, especially post-expansion. Nutro sites like St. Louis boosted their NET ranking before, and he's eyeing more there. Chicago or Kansas City alongside foes like Illinois and Kansas. Gates knows the programs on pace, but not there yet. No national title, so no complacency. With roster and assistant coach spots open, he's hunting the right fits to overachieve and chase that chip.