** Missouri Tigers Edge Mississippi State in 84-79 Thriller

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In a thrilling contest at Mizzou Arena, the Missouri Tigers clinched an impressive 84-79 victory over the Mississippi State Bulldogs, thanks to standout performances from Mark Mitchell and T.O. Barrett. Mitchell led the scoring for Missouri, contributing 19 points, while Barrett added a solid 16 points to secure the win for the Tigers.

The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams showcasing their offensive prowess. Missouri’s success was largely attributed to their three-point shooting, which proved crucial in the tight matchup. The Tigers converted 11 of their 24 attempts from beyond the arc, allowing them to maintain a slim lead throughout the contest.

Mississippi State, fighting hard to stay in the game, was led by Josh Hubbard, who put up a commendable 20 points. His efforts, along with contributions from teammates like Annor Boateng, kept the Bulldogs within striking distance. However, the Tigers’ resilience and ability to execute in the clutch moments ultimately propelled them to victory.

As reported by Yahoo Sports, Missouri’s victory improved their overall record to 15-7 and marked their fifth win in Southeastern Conference play, bringing them to a commendable 5-4 in the league standings. This win is particularly significant as it adds momentum to the Tigers’ season, positioning them favorably as they look ahead to upcoming matchups against tough conference opponents like Arkansas and South Carolina.

The game’s turning point came late in the second half when Missouri managed to build a small cushion after a series of timely three-pointers. The Bulldogs fought valiantly, narrowing the gap to just two points with under a minute remaining. However, Missouri’s defense held firm, successfully thwarting Mississippi State’s attempts to tie the game or take the lead.

Coach Dennis Gates expressed pride in his team’s performance, highlighting their ability to adapt and respond under pressure. “We showed a lot of heart tonight,” Gates stated in the post-game interview. “Every player stepped up when it mattered, and that’s what we need as we move forward in the conference.”

Missouri’s victory not only boosts their confidence but also strengthens their position in the competitive SEC landscape. With the season progressing, the Tigers will need to maintain this level of play to secure a spot in the postseason.

As the final buzzer sounded, it was clear that this victory was more than just a number on the board; it was a statement about Missouri’s potential as they continue to refine their game and push for a successful season.

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