Missouri Tigers: Bubble Team's Tournament Run

0:00On March 7th, the Missouri Tigers basketball team has kept fans nervous all season long with a string of nail-biteers. Out of 31 games, 12 came down to 7 points or fewer, including 10 of their 18 southeastern conference matchups. 8 went to the final minutes as one possession contests, making every possession feel huge. Earlier this week, they lost an overtime to Arkansas, 88 to 84, after failing to seal the win late. They had similar chances against teams like Notre Dame and Ole Miss, but couldn't close those out either. Still, the Tigers faced the southeastern conference tournament this week, with the game Wednesday or Thursday that could quiet the doubts. Players and coaches make a strong case for an NCAA tournament spot. Forward, Mark Mitchell called them obviously deserving, based on their schedule and big victories. Even Arkansas coach John Calipari agreed, saying they're a team that can advance. Their head coach Dennis Gates highlighted 10 conference wins and solid metrics.

1:02Missouri boasts five wins over Top Quadrant 1, opponents and at least six more against likely tournament teams. They dealt with key injuries early. Guard Trent Pierce missed all non-coference games, and Jaden Stone sat out 7 from late November to early. January, once healthy, they played their best ball, though some close losses stung. Selection Sunday sits just eight days away, and while the bubble feels soft overall, the Tigers left some control in others hands. A strong tournament run could still punch their ticket and prove they're ready for March Madness.