The Missouri Tigers’ run in the SEC Tournament came to an end on Friday night with a 95-81 loss to the No. 2 seed Florida Gators. Despite a strong effort, the Tigers couldn’t overcome key injuries and foul trouble, ultimately falling short in their bid to advance further in Nashville.
Missouri entered Friday’s quarterfinal matchup riding momentum from their 85-73 victory over No. 10 seed Mississippi State on Thursday night. However, that win came at a cost, as the Tigers lost forward Mark Mitchell to an injury, leaving them shorthanded against a deep and talented Florida squad.
Florida was led by guard Walter Clayton Jr., who put up 18 points in a well-balanced offensive attack. The Gators’ size and depth proved to be too much for Missouri, who struggled to keep pace, particularly in the second half. Guard play from Tamar Bates and Tony Perkins kept the Tigers competitive, but foul trouble and the absence of Mitchell limited their ability to mount a serious comeback.
Caleb Grill talks about the loss
“I don’t really ever take a moral victory for anything.” Mizzou guard Caleb Grill said after the loss. “I think whoever is out there, we’ve got to win the game.”
Up next for Mizzou
Despite the loss, Mizzou’s performance in the SEC Tournament likely solidified their position in the upcoming NCAA Tournament. The Tigers now turn their attention to Selection Sunday, where they are projected to earn a No. 6 seed. The win over Mississippi State provided them with the final boost they needed, and Friday’s matchup against Florida was a chance to test themselves against top-tier competition with little to lose.
With the regular season and conference tournament behind them, Missouri will now prepare for their NCAA Tournament journey. The Tigers will hope to get healthier and make the necessary adjustments as they look to make a deep run in March Madness.
