Despite a stellar individual performance from Tamar Bates, who scored a career-high 36 points, the Missouri Tigers (8-10, 0-5 SEC) fell short against the Florida Gators (12-6, 2-3), losing 79-67 at Mizzou Arena on Saturday night. Bates expressed his frustration after the game, emphasizing the need for the team’s development to translate into victories.
In the first half, Mizzou effectively employed a strong press, resulting in steals and keeping the Gators on their heels. However, the offensive burden largely fell on Bates, who contributed 17 points in the first half, ending with the Tigers trailing 37-34 at halftime.
Bates continued his impressive performance in the second half, going 4-for-4. A jumper from Bates, assisted by Noah Carter, briefly gave Mizzou a one-point lead, but it was short-lived. Florida responded with an 8-0 run, seizing control of the game.
Apart from Bates, no other Missouri player reached double digits in scoring. Nick Honor managed two 3-pointers and four free throws, providing the only other double-digit performance for the Tigers.
Florida’s Micah Handlogten played a pivotal role in his team’s victory, contributing to an 8-0 run and dominating the paint with a game-high 13 rebounds and 10 points. Mizzou struggled in rebounding, with Florida out-rebounding them 40-27, and the Gators capitalized on offensive rebounds, converting them into crucial points.
Missouri coach Dennis Gates expressed frustration with the team’s inability to capitalize on opportunities during Florida’s run. The Tigers’ struggles in the paint and the demoralizing effect of missed rebounds were evident in their performance.
The game saw 20 fouls called against Missouri and 16 against Florida, with Gates expressing dissatisfaction with the officiating. He highlighted the free-throw differentials, with Florida attempting 20 shots from the free-throw line in the second half compared to Missouri’s 13.
Despite the challenges, Gates emphasized the need to finish possessions and expressed confidence that the team can bounce back. Missouri’s 0-5 start in conference play marks only the second time since the 1966-67 season that they have faced such a situation. The Tigers aim to regroup as they face Texas A&M next at 8 p.m. on Tuesday.
