2007 Missouri Tigers Basketball Preview

The Missouri Tigers (18- 12 overall, 7- 9 Big 12) had their best season in four years under new head coach Mike Anderson (18- 12 in one year at Missouri and 88- 41 in five years overall). The last time the Tigers went to the NCAA March Madness was 2003- 2004, when they won 22. Coach Mike Anderson, who pushed the team to play an up-tempo game last season, seems to have the Tigers on track.

Overall in 2006- 2007, the Missouri Tigers could move the ball around, notching 15.5 APG (fourth in the Big 12 and 46th nationally), and they could score, hitting for 77.6 PPG (third in the Big 12 and 27th nationally). But they were abysmal on defense, rebounding and turnovers. The Tigers were ninth in scoring “D,” as clubs hit for 71.9 PPG. They were minus-2.0 in rebounding and turned the ball over 14.9 times per contest, finishing 10th in both categories.

Senior forward Leo Lyons (7.4 PPG. 4.3 RPG, 55.0 FG%) gives the team experience and versatility on the court. Lyons can run the court and is a fine offensive player. Look for junior transfer DeMarre Carroll to start immediately. He is an aggressive, tough and athletic power forward. Senior front man Marshall Brown (10.1 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 45.0 FG%) is a resilient player and avid contributor.

Senior guard Stefhon Hannah (15.4 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 4.6 APG, 2.4 SPG, 45.2 FG%) is a good playmaker and defensive force but has to handle the ball much better. He turned the ball over 3.3 TPG last season. Sophomore Keon Lawrence (9.7 PPG, 2.9 RPG, 43.3 FG%) was able to score in bunches in is first season and should be even more prolific this year. Junior Matt Lawrence (11.2 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 48.5 FG%) is a solid three-point threat.

Anderson is a coach noted for improving any team in which he comes into contact. Overall, clubs in their second year with Anderson win five more games than they did in their previous season. If the Tigers, a team with more experience and depth this season, can win 27, they will be included in March Madness brackets for the 21st time.