Tigers' Season Ends in NCAA Loss

0:00On March 21st, Missouri's tiger season ended Friday night with an 80-66 loss to Miami in the first round of the NCAA tournament. The team wrapped up at 20 wins and 13 losses after a gritty run to the dance. Coach Dennis Gates pointed to Miami's 19 second chance points as a killer, especially early when they built a lead. Missouri fought back to take a brief advantage late in the second half, around the 7-minute mark, but Miami responded with a big run, fueled by... Better three-point shooting and trips to the pain. Players like Mark Mitchell faced heavy double teams for Miami's big bodies, limiting his impact until late. Jaden Stone credited the team's chemistry and his own comeback from a hand injury for sparking their turnaround after the new year. Gates reflected on a season of close calls, often decided by one possession amid injuries and maturation. He praised the group's resilience, saying they proved doubters wrong, and built a foundation for the future. Looking ahead, the tiger's head into off season with lessons and consistency and heart, setting the stage for more battles under Gates in Columbia.