Mizzou’s depth adds layer of strength as SEC hoops opener at Kentucky approaches
The Missouri Tigers’ calling card this season was always going to be their depth. While the roster doesn’t include surefire NBA players like Michael Porter Jr., Mizzou features quality Division I talent across the board.
And after navigating a bulk of the nonconference schedule, Mizzou coach Cuonzo Martin has smoothed out his rotation. He’s found what works for the Tigers.
Instead of stacking his starting lineup with those who play the most, Martin has opted for synergy. For instance, he’s found an unlikely starter in Mitchell Smith, who played in a reserve role last season.
But it’s not just Mitchell Smith who’s emerging for Mizzou. The duo of Xavier Pinson and Javon Pickett has provided a boost off the bench. If guard Torrence Watson can bust out of his shooting slump, it’ll mean just another weapon.
The Tigers’ depth could make a difference as Southeastern Conference play begins at 1 p.m. Saturday in Kentucky’s Rupp Arena. And that timing bodes well for the future as they eye a second trip to the NCAA Tournament in three years under Martin.
“Sacrifice is not an easy thing at all levels,” Martin said. “When you see somebody else having success, I want some of that success too. You have to continue to grow and understand that when is the most important thing is to win games.”
Martin has raved about Pinson and Pickett this season. Mizzou’s quality of play — especially from a defensive standpoint — doesn’t miss a step when Martin dips into his bench for the sophomore two guards.
Pickett coming off the bench is a recent trend; he started MU’s first seven games of the season. But Martin shook up his rotation, sliding forward Mitchell Smith into what used to be Pickett’s spot.
Pickett has responded well, bringing energy off the bench. When he’s on the court, he provides a scoring boost, including a stretch of three straight games in which he scored in double figures.
“Whatever they need me to do, I have to go out there and be able to do it,” Pickett said. “It’s not really worrying about coming off the bench or starting. It’s just making sure I go out there and execute the plays, do the little things I have to do.”
Pinson, meanwhile, has started just one game this season. He relieves Dru Smith, taking over ball-handling duties. The flashy guard can break down defenders off the dribble and is a willing passer, ranking second on the team in assists. He changes the Tigers’ pace of play when he’s on the court.
“It doesn’t matter if you’re coming off the bench or starting,” Pinson said. “When Coach calls your name, you gotta be ready. No matter what the situation is.”
Mitchell Smith, who’s started the past four games, has been a pleasant surprise. He gives the Tigers a size advantage when paired with fellow 6-foot-10 forward Jeremiah Tilmon.
While Mizzou relies on Tilmon for a wide range of buckets, Mitchell Smith is a supportive piece with his ability to make threes. As a lengthy defender, he also allows the Tigers to vary defensive their sets.
“He’s long, he’s active, so you’re not getting shots up,” Martin said of Smith. “He can switch four different ways on smaller guys, so he takes that away from you. I think the next step for his game is posting up.”
The other three starting spots have been constant: guards Mark Smith and Dru Smith, along with forward Kobe Brown. Mark and Dru Smith are tied for the team lead with 11.8 points per game.
Mizzou’s leading scorers will get their points when the offense flows through them. But when they struggle — as Mark Smith and Tilmon did against Illinois in the Braggin’ Rights Game — the Tigers’ bench guys can step in and score, too.
Watson is coming off a record-breaking performance: He made eight three-pointers against Chicago State Monday.
“We feel good heading into SEC play,” he said. “This is great momentum for us. It’s a great chance for us to get some momentum going into Lexington.”