2006 Missouri Tigers Basketball Preview

2006 Missouri Tigers Basketball Predictions

The Missouri Tigers were looking for a definite up-tick in their program so they hired coach Mike Anderson (89- 41 in 4 years), who turned around the UAB program in one year. Missouri is hoping that he can do the same for them.

The up-tempo game that Anderson endorses should have a beneficial effect on junior point guard Jason Horton (4.9 PPG, 2.9 RPG, 4.5 APG, 34.6 FG%, 50.0 FT%). Horton has quickness and is a fine defender but must improve his perimeter shot. Freshman Keon Lawrence, who led N.J. prep players in scoring last year, could start as shooting guard. Freshman J.T. Tiller offers fine “D,” while swingman Glen Dandridge (2.5 PPG, 1.5 RPG, 0.3 APG, 38.1 FG%, 33.3 FT%) will provide some points.

This is a team in need of offense and the Tigers’ inside game may be able to help. Junior forward Marshall Brown (9.6 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 1.4 APG, 45.6 FG%, 68.7 FT%), an athletic player, can make things happen on the wing and performs well at crunch time. He scored in double figures 14 times last season but must develop consistency. Sophomore Leo Lyons (2.6 PPG, 2.4 RPG, 0.2 APG, 44.8 FG%, 36.1 FT%) make better decisions with the ball, and junior Kalen Grimes, who has potential at center, must work on his propensity to get into foul trouble.

Anderson looks to get this athletic squad to play a quick transition game off of stubborn defense. In this style of play, high pressure “D” leads to quick points. The defensive part of the equation should not be a problem but points may be as this team does not possess many proven shooters.

With so many head coaching changes in the Big 12, the time is ripe for teams to change philosophy and playing style. In this way, opponents may find Missouri tough to handle. This team should move up in the conference but not enough to get to the NCAA Tournament. That goal will take a while longer, as will Anderson’s stated objective of winning the national championship.

If you want more info on the 2006 Missouri Tigers College basketball team check out the NCAA's official basketball team page of the program or check out some rival previews from Maddux Sports of schools like the Nebraska Cornhuskers and Kansas Jayhawks.