Missouri vs Miami: Home Court Advantage?

0:00On March 20, Missouri's Tigers face Miami's Hurricanes in the first round of the NCAA tournament at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis. It's the Tigers' home state and biggest market, but Coach Dennis Gates isn't calling it a true home game. The match of tips off at 9.10 pm on Friday. Both teams know the crowd might lean toward Missouri, yet Miami's staff is prepping like it's a tough road contest. The Hurricanes posted an eight-and-two road record this season and expect the fastest spark quick runs for the Tigers. Missouri players see a chance to bounce back from a crushing 43-point loss to Illinois right there on December 22. That defeat lit a fire under the team, helping them turn things around and earn this tournament spot. Freshman Forward, Nicholas Randall, a St. Louis native, calls it a special homecoming. The Vashon High alum, who won three straight state titles in high school, plans to pack the stands with family and friends for a big energy boost. With lineups that have shifted all season, Missouri stays flexible heading into this one.

1:03Randall's reps in 21 games have him ready to contribute whenever called upon, setting the stage for a high stakes clash.