Missouri Tigers vs Alabama Crimson Tide – NCAA Basketball Preview – February 19, 2025
Missouri hosts Alabama in a key SEC matchup on Wednesday night at Mizzou Arena. The Tigers have been strong at home with a 16-1 record, while the Crimson Tide come in with a 21-4 overall record. Alabama won the last meeting between these teams on January 16 with a 93-75 victory.
Alabama is coming off a loss to Auburn, where head coach Nate Oats called out leading scorer Mark Sears for his struggles. Missouri is riding momentum after dominant wins over Oklahoma and Georgia. Both teams are fighting for SEC positioning with March Madness approaching.
Missouri Preview – Can They Stay Hot at Home?
Missouri has been dominant at home this season, winning 16 of 17 games. The Tigers have balanced scoring, led by Tamar Bates, who averages 13.4 points per game. Mark Mitchell and Caleb Grill provide additional scoring threats, with Grill shooting 46.7% from three.
The Tigers play solid team basketball, averaging 16.7 assists per game. They take care of the ball with a low turnover rate and rebound well, led by Mitchell in the paint. Defensively, they hold opponents to 42.3% shooting and force turnovers with active hands.
Missouri is coming off a strong second-half performance in their win over Georgia. They had 18 assists and only three turnovers in that game, showing their ability to move the ball and take care of possessions. They will need to maintain that efficiency against Alabama.
Alabama Preview – Can Sears Bounce Back?
Alabama has been one of the best offensive teams in the country, averaging 90.3 points per game. Mark Sears leads the team with 17.8 points per game, but he struggled in the last outing, shooting 4-of-17 against Auburn. Head coach Nate Oats wants Sears to impact the game beyond scoring.
The Crimson Tide excel in getting to the free throw line, averaging 26.8 attempts per game. They also shoot a high volume of three-pointers, making 10 per game on 33.9% shooting. Their fast-paced attack keeps pressure on opposing defenses.
Defensively, Alabama allows 69 points per game, but they have struggled in transition defense. Their rebounding is strong, ranking second in the country with 40.3 boards per game. They will need to clean up their perimeter defense against Missouri’s shooters.
Betting Prediction
Alabama enters as a slight 1-point favorite, with the total set at 171.5. The Crimson Tide have hit the over in 10 of their last 14 road games, and Missouri has been strong at home. Missouri has also won 16 of their last 21 home games straight up.
This game should be close, but Missouri’s home dominance gives them the edge. Alabama’s offense is dangerous, but Missouri’s balanced attack and ability to control possessions make them a strong play. Expect a high-scoring game with Missouri pulling out the win.
Pick: Missouri Tigers +1 over Alabama Crimson Tide
Big game for both teams in the SEC. Take the Missouri Tigers to win this game at home.
