- On March 7, 2025, Missouri Tigers’ head coach Dennis Gates addressed the media ahead of the team’s regular-season finale against the No. 19 Kentucky Wildcats. The No. 15 Tigers (21-9) aim to secure their 11th Southeastern Conference (SEC) win, matching their highest in program history.
Gates emphasized the game’s significance for postseason positioning, stating, “It does have implications in Selection Sunday… Both teams will have work to do to increase that, but it’s a tournament game in our eyes.”
Addressing recent defensive challenges, particularly in the paint, Gates highlighted the need to reduce fouling: “You don’t give yourself a chance to defend if you’re just allowing free throws… You cannot get yourself in the bonus too early, and that takes away the aggression.”
Gates also praised Kentucky and head coach Mark Pope, asserting, “I truly believe they’re a top-three seed in the NCAA Tournament, no doubt about it.”
The press conference also featured senior guard Tamar Bates and graduate guard Jeremy Sanchez, reflecting on their collegiate journeys and the upcoming Senior Day festivities.
As the Tigers prepare to honor their seniors, the matchup against Kentucky presents an opportunity to solidify their standing and build momentum entering the po
stseason.
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