Missouri struggled in the first half, shooting 33% from the field and only 25% from beyond the arc, resulting in a seven-point deficit against Drake at halftime. None of the Tigers managed to score more than five points in those initial 20 minutes. Drake effectively implemented its game plan, forcing Missouri into a style of play that played to Drake’s strengths.
In the second half, Missouri mounted a comeback with a 10-0 run, narrowing the score to 52-51 with 4:28 remaining. However, Drake responded with a seven-point surge, ultimately securing a 67-57 victory.
Missouri’s season concludes with a record of 22-12, while the Bulldogs advance to face the winner of the matchup between Texas Tech and UNC-Wilmington. Below are some key takeaways from the game.
1) Acknowledging Missouri’s Fight: Although the Tigers initially seemed out of the game, they managed a commendable comeback. Unfortunately, moments of poor execution, like a critical turnover from Marques Warrick and a missed shot from T.O. Barrett, prevented them from capitalizing on the momentum.
2) Drake’s Defensive Prowess: Throughout the game, it became evident that Missouri struggled against Drake’s defense, leading to critical missed opportunities. Missouri required precise gameplay, but ultimately could not deliver in high-pressure situations, resulting in several crucial turnovers.
3) Discovering Offensive Gaps: Missouri began the game strongly but failed to convert opportunities into points. Players like Caleb Grill, who started the season strong, went cold at crucial times, contributing to the team’s inability to execute offensively during the latter part of the season.
4) Reflections on the Coach’s Performance: Coach Dennis Gates has faced challenges in turning the team’s momentum in tight situations. Overall, Missouri’s performance this season, while showing improvement, ultimately fell short of expectations, particularly in the crucial late-game scenarios.
In closing, Missouri’s season may not have been disastrous, but it certainly did not meet the hopes many had at the outset. The loss leaves lingering questions about the team’s future direction. Tune into the Bruning Law Firm postgame show for further discussions as we unpack the game.
