In a pivotal Southeastern Conference matchup, the No. 4 Alabama Crimson Tide will face the No. 15 Missouri Tigers tonight at Mizzou Arena in Columbia, Missouri. Tip-off is scheduled for 8 p.m. CT, with the game broadcast on the SEC Network.
Alabama enters the contest with a 21-4 overall record and a 10-2 mark in SEC play. However, the Crimson Tide is looking to rebound after a 94-85 home loss to top-ranked Auburn on February 15. In that game, guard Mark Sears led Alabama with 18 points and two assists. Despite the setback, Alabama remains a formidable force, boasting a high-octane offense that averages over 80 points per game.
Missouri, with a 19-6 overall record and an 8-4 conference standing, is riding high after an 87-74 victory over Georgia on February 15. Guards Anthony Robinson III and Caleb Grill each contributed 15 points in that win, showcasing the Tigers’ balanced scoring attack. Under the guidance of head coach Dennis Gates, Missouri has developed a reputation for tenacious defense and efficient perimeter shooting.
Historically, Alabama has dominated the series, leading 15-7 all-time against Missouri. The Crimson Tide has won the last four meetings, including a decisive 93-75 victory on January 16, 2024, in Tuscaloosa. In that matchup, Alabama’s offensive prowess was on full display, overwhelming the Tigers’ defense.
One of Alabama’s strengths this season is its depth. Head coach Nate Oats has cultivated a roster where multiple players are capable of leading the team in scoring on any given night. This versatility makes the Crimson Tide difficult to defend, as opponents cannot focus on shutting down a single player. However, Alabama’s reliance on the three-point shot can be a double-edged sword; when the shots aren’t falling, their offense can stagnate.
Missouri’s defense will be tested against Alabama’s fast-paced offense. The Tigers excel at forcing turnovers and converting them into transition points, a strategy that could disrupt the Crimson Tide’s rhythm. Additionally, Missouri’s ability to defend the perimeter will be crucial in limiting Alabama’s three-point opportunities. Offensively, the Tigers’ balanced scoring ensures that they are not overly reliant on a single player, making them adaptable to various defensive schemes.
In terms of recent performance, Alabama’s loss to Auburn exposed some defensive vulnerabilities, particularly in guarding dynamic backcourt players. Addressing these issues will be essential for the Crimson Tide to contain Missouri’s guards. On the other hand, Missouri’s recent win against Georgia highlighted their offensive efficiency, but they will need to maintain that level of play against a more formidable Alabama defense.
Both teams are relatively healthy, with Alabama guard Houston Mallette listed as questionable due to a knee injury, while guard Latrell Wrightsell Jr. is out with an Achilles injury. Missouri has not reported any significant injuries, allowing them to utilize their full rotation.
The outcome of this game could have significant implications for SEC tournament seeding and NCAA tournament positioning. A win for Alabama would solidify their standing as one of the top teams in the nation, while a victory for Missouri would bolster their resume and potentially improve their ranking.
Game Summary:
- Date and Time: Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. CT
- Location: Mizzou Arena, Columbia, Missouri
- Television: SEC Network
- Streaming: Available on fuboTV
- Current Rankings: Alabama No. 4, Missouri No. 15
- All-Time Series Record: Alabama leads 15-7
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