Missouri Tigers basketball at South Carolina Gamecocks: TV, tipoff and a prediction
THE DETAILS
Tipoff: 2:30 p.m. Saturday
Where: Columbia, South Carolina, Colonial Life Arena
TV: SEC Network
Radio: KMBZ (98.1 FM)
PROJECTED LINEUPS
P | No. | South Carolina | Ht. | Yr. | PPG |
F | 21 | Maik Kotsar | 6-11 | Sr. | 9.3 |
F | 10 | Justin Minaya | 6-6 | R-So. | 7.9 |
F | 24 | Keyshawn Bryant | 6-5 | So. | 7.8 |
G | 5 | Jermaine Couisnard | 6-4 | R-Fr. | 10.4 |
G | 0 | AJ Lawson | 6-6 | So. | 14.0 |
P | No. | Missouri | Ht. | Yr. | PPG |
F | 14 | Reed Nikko | 6-10 | R-Sr. | 3.6 |
F | 5 | Mitchell Smith | 6-10 | R-Jr. | 4.8 |
G | 4 | Javon Pickett | 6-5 | So. | 7.2 |
G | 12 | Dru Smith | 6-3 | R-Jr. | 11.8 |
G | 13 | Mark Smith | 6-5 | Jr. | 10.9 |
About South Carolina (12-8, 4-3 SEC): The Gamecocks have played a twisting season thus far, though they’re on the upswing recently as winners of four of their past five games. They earned an impressive road win at Arkansas last time out and upset No. 13 Kentucky on their home court. After an unimpressive nonconference slate, the Gamecocks are again heating up just in time for SEC play. South Carolina’s led by AJ Lawson and Jermaine Couisnard. KenPom ranks them No. 91.
About Missouri (10-10, 2-5 SEC): The Tigers earned a much-needed home win against Georgia last time out, completing a 20-point comeback. If Jeremiah Tilmon’s available to go, he’s a game time decision Saturday, that could be just the spark they need. Otherwise, Dru Smith has been vital for the Tigers, as he leads the team in minutes, points, assists and tied for rebounds. KenPom has them No. 96.
Prediction: Just a few weeks ago, this game looked like one the Tigers could steal against a lagging opponent. But with the Gamecocks soaring and the Tigers looking for momentum, it’s difficult to imagine Mizzou pulling out an upset. The Tigers would be best served if they attacked the basket and earned free throws, which is where the Gamecocks defense struggles. We’ll say it’ll be a close one with Mizzou having a few changes near the end.
South Carolina 71, Missouri 69