Tamar Bates scored 29 points to lead Missouri in a stunning upset over the top-ranked Kansas Jayhawks, securing a 76-67 victory on Sunday. This performance marked a significant highlight in Bates’ season, showcasing his ability to shine under pressure.
Mark Mitchell contributed 17 points, helping Missouri achieve its first win against Kansas since a narrow 74-71 victory back on February 4, 2012. Anthony Robinson II also made an impact with 11 points and five steals, while Josh Gray dominated the boards with 10 rebounds for the Tigers, who now stand at 8-1.
Hunter Dickinson, the star center for Kansas, recorded 19 points and 14 rebounds but struggled with ball control, committing seven turnovers. The Jayhawks, now 7-2, are facing challenges on the road, having lost their last two games, including a 76-63 defeat to Creighton earlier in the week.
Missouri surged ahead with a commanding 57-33 lead after a jump shot from Tony Perkins with 14:15 left in the game. However, Kansas fought back, outscoring the Tigers 30-8 during a crucial stretch that kept the game competitive.
Bates played a pivotal role in building Missouri’s 39-25 halftime lead, scoring 18 points before the break. The Tigers maintained their momentum by opening the second half with a 16-6 run, putting further pressure on the Jayhawks.
Takeaways
Kansas struggled against Missouri’s size and defensive intensity, marking a disappointing 5-5 record at Mizzou Arena since its opening in 2004.
Key moment
A pivotal moment came when Mitchell sank a 3-pointer, pushing Missouri to a 68-63 lead with just 2:03 left on the clock. Following that, Gray made two free throws, and Bates sealed the deal with a layup, extending the lead to 72-63 with only 1:16 remaining.
Key stat
Kansas’s struggles were evident in their 22 turnovers, with a staggering 14 occurring in the first half alone, highlighting their difficulties in maintaining possession.
Up next
Kansas will look to bounce back as they host North Carolina State on Saturday, while Missouri prepares to face Long Island at home the same day.
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