Following their disappointing loss to Memphis in their season opener, Missouri’s men’s basketball earned their first win against the Howard Bison for not only this season, but the calendar year as well. The Tigers snapped a 20-game losing streak dating back to Dec. 30 of 2023 with their home win against the Bison.
Missouri led for the full duration of the game. At one point the Tigers had a 14-point lead, which was cut down to four late in the second half. Howard’s electric three-point shooting was on display throughout as the Bison went 10-19 from beyond the arc. Their ability to consistently and efficiently score from deep kept them in the game, specifically from guard Marcus Dockery, who knocked down four three pointers of his own and ended the game with 14 points.
In contrast, Mizzou struggled mightily from the three point line the entire game. The Tigers finished a dreadful 3-22 from deep, with all three of those made shots coming from Tamar Bates, who finished with 17 points including an incredible step back buzzer beater at the end of the first half. As a team that has previously said it prides itself on their three point shooting frequency, it was the defense that won this game for Mizzou.
Missouri head coach Dennis Gates made sure to note this in the post-game press conference, stating that the team “won the game defensively” and “showed character” specifically on defense. The defense only let up two field goals in the last 3:43 of the second half, which allowed the Tigers to make a late run to close the game out. Missouri finished the game with 11 steals and four blocks as a team.
Dennis Gates inserted Annor Boateng and Tony Perkins into the starting lineup against Howard in place of Anthony Robinson II and Caleb Grill, who both started against Memphis. Boateng, a highly touted freshman, received his first start and appearance in his collegiate career. His athleticism was evident with several eye-catching plays, including a layup and alley oop.
Boateng wasn’t the only freshman to make an impact in their first college basketball minutes though. Marcus Allen made a key basket late in the second half to hold off Howard’s comeback.
Duke transfer Mark Mitchell was a force on the boards, finishing with 16 points and 8 rebounds. Anthony Robinson brought some energy off the bench and added 13 points.
The win was a key first step in righting the ship for Dennis Gates after a brutal 2023 season in which the Tigers finished winless in SEC conference play.
The 1-1 Tigers will face 0-2 Eastern Washington in their next game on Monday, Nov. 11 back at Mizzou Arena.