Missouri's Near-Upset Falls Short vs Kentucky

0:00On March 12, Missouri's men's basketball team came agonizingly close to pulling off an upset in their southeastern conference tournament opener against Kentucky. They trailed by 16 points in the first half, but mounted a furious comeback to grab a one-point lead with just two minutes 40 seconds left. In the end though, the Tigers fell short, losing 78-72. Early on, Missouri dug themselves a deep hole with sloppy play. They committed seven turnovers in the first half alone, which Kentucky converted into 17 points. Adding to the woes, starting center, Sean Phillips Jr. picked up three quick fouls and sat most of the half, leaving their interior defense. Vulnerable and allowing 26 points in the paint. The Tigers refused to quit, sparking a second half surge behind Phillips' strong return and Mark Mitchell's hot shooting. Mitchell matched his career high 32 points, dominating when it mattered most, and helping Missouri seize their first lead since the opening.

1:01Tip. Kentucky State composed down the stretch, capitalizing on a crucial lay turnover to fuel an 8-2 run that sealed the win. Missouri's coach noted Phillips' emotional lift and on court impact, but it wasn't quite enough to overcome the deficit. Now, the loss puts Missouri squarely on the NCAA tournament bubble with their fate hanging in the balance until Selection Sunday reveals if they'll make the big dance.