STARTING FIVE

Missouri women may have pathway to NCAA Tournament

Updated: 2013-02-06T06:35:35Z

By TOM SMITH

The Kansas City Star

The Missouri women’s basketball team had reason to be proud following Sunday’s 80-63 victory over Tennessee in Columbia, and the Tigers had some time to enjoy it.

“I think this was a huge accomplishment,” MU sophomore Morgan Eye said. “This is what we work for, and we always believe in each other. That’s the most important thing for us. This is a great experience for our team, and I’m excited about what we have ahead.”

What’s ahead for Missouri is seven more regular-season games, starting with Sunday’s contest against Mississippi State at 1 p.m. at Mizzou Arena. A strong showing could help the Tigers gain a spot in the NCAA Tournament.

The Tigers haven’t made the tournament since 2006, but that could change if they can work their way up the SEC standings. MU is 15-8 overall and 4-5 in the SEC, tied for seventh place.

“This is a program that hasn’t had a lot of success in the last couple of years,” Tigers coach Robin Pingeton said. “Laying the foundation, brick by brick. This is another brick in regards to the foundation.”

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