Missouri Basketball's March Madness Push

0:00On March 2, Missouri's basketball team picked up a big road win over Mississippi State, 88-64, boosting their record to 20. Wins in 9 losses overall, and 10-6 in the SEC. Players like Senior Sean Phillips Jr., and Red Shirt Freshman, Trent Burns, are stepping up big now that every game counts toward a potential march. Man is spot. These guys are a new territory this season. Phillips never made the NCAA tournament in college stops at LSU and Arizona State, where his team struggled to win games. Burns sat out last year with a foot injury, but has worked his way into the rotation, sharing time with Phillips effectively. Coach Dennis Gates credits their growth to patients and mental toughness from both the staff and players. Their unselfish play, shot blocking, and communication have strengthened Missouri's defense around the basket, especially in crunch time. In the win, Phillips scored 16 points with four rebounds and two blocks, while Burns added eight points, five boards, and a block.

1:03That depth is helping the Tigers stay competitive late in the regular season. Looking ahead, Missouri faces Oklahoma on the road Tuesday at 6 p.m. on ESPN new, kicking off a key stretch to lock in their tournament hopes. Staying physical on rebounds and hitting free throws will be crucial as they push forward.