The Missouri basketball team ended their losing streak by overcoming a 20-point deficit at home to defeat the Georgia Bulldogs. The win was a team-effort in which five players scored over 10 points.
Missouri basketball team just exemplified why one should never give up. With 13:35 left on the clock, Anthony Edwards swished a 3-pointer that put Georgia up 59-39.
Mizzou responded by outscoring the Bulldogs 33-10 in those final 13 minutes.
The Tigers shot 43 percent from the field and from deep. If they can keep that up, they could surprise a few more teams later this season.
Studs vs Georgia
Stud #1: Reed Nikko
Big ‘Sota couldn’t have chosen a better time to play the game of his career. He dropped in 13 points and grabbed five boards while flushing home a pair of poster dunks. Oh yeah, he also saved the game with a rejection of possible top draft pick Anthony Edwards.
His matchup, Georgia big man Rayshaun Hammonds, finished with 0 points and two rebounds in 33 minutes.
Stud #2: Xavier Pinson
Xavier Pinson may have been the biggest reason for the huge comeback. Pinson started hitting shots from everywhere and he converted his free throws.
He connected on two huge 3-pointers to help maintain Missouri’s momentum during the comeback. He also was a pest on defense and knocked the ball loose a few times to force turnovers.
Perhaps his biggest play was ripping the ball away from Edwards after a missed shot from Mitchell Smith. Pinson then went up to finish the layup to put Mizzou up 71-69. A Reed Nikko block and Mitchell Smith free throw then sealed the deal.
Stud #3: Mitchell Smith
Mitchell Smith ended a cold stretch to the tune of 12 points on 3-of-5 shooting from downtown. His energy on both ends of the floor kept Mizzou in the game and pushed them over the edge to take the lead.
In what has been a shaky season for the junior big man, Smith came through when it mattered. His confidence increasing should only help him keep this hot streak going.