Missouri Struggles in Backcourt in Lopsided Loss at Alabama

Tigers' search for consistency continues as Crimson Tide pull away for 90-64 victory

Jan. 27, 2026 at 11:23pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Missouri's ongoing issues in the backcourt were on full display in a 90-64 loss to Alabama on Wednesday night. The Tigers started T.O. Barrett at point guard for the second straight game, but the team struggled to keep pace with Alabama's up-tempo offense and hot shooting, as the Crimson Tide knocked down 15 three-pointers. Missouri shot just 39.4% from the field and 4-of-21 from beyond the arc, while also struggling at the free-throw line, going 8-of-23.

Why it matters

The loss drops Missouri to 0-6 in SEC play and further clouds the Tigers' NCAA Tournament hopes, as they currently sit as the first team out according to BracketMatrix.com. Head coach Dennis Gates remains confident that guard Anthony Robinson II is close to a breakthrough, but the Tigers' backcourt issues have been a persistent problem throughout the season.

The details

Alabama dictated the tempo early, forcing Missouri to defend in space and repeatedly creating mismatches through ball screens and transition. The Crimson Tide assisted on 19 of their 26 made field goals and shot 15-of-39 from three-point range. Barrett started aggressively for Missouri, scoring the team's first basket and briefly giving the Tigers a first-half lead, but the Crimson Tide's pressure eventually wore down the Tigers' guards. Barrett finished with a team-high 13 points, while Robinson provided a defensive spark off the bench.

  • Missouri entered Wednesday's game 0-5 in SEC play.
  • The Tigers host Mississippi State this Saturday, January 31, 2026.

The players

T.O. Barrett

Missouri guard who started at point guard for the second straight game, finishing with 13 points and 4 assists.

Anthony Robinson II

Missouri guard who provided a defensive spark off the bench, playing strong perimeter defense.

Latrell Wrightsell Jr.

Alabama guard who led all scorers with 21 points, shooting 7-of-10 from three-point range.

Labaron Philon

Alabama guard who added 18 points and 6 assists for the Crimson Tide.

Charles Bediako

Alabama center who chipped in 14 points and 6 rebounds in the win.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Absolutely credit Alabama's shooting performance. When you go 15-for-39 from three and then go eight-for-23 from the free-throw line on the road, you're not going to win many games.”

— Dennis Gates, Missouri Head Coach

“They set solid screens and were able to allow those guards to get loose. Their pressure lets them stay attached to shooters and funnel everything downhill, but it doesn't happen without their offensive execution.”

— Dennis Gates, Missouri Head Coach

“Sometimes nothing can go right, and you're just one play away. When you're one play away, you've got to be ready to seize the moment, and he'll be prepared to seize the moment.”

— Dennis Gates, Missouri Head Coach

What’s next

Missouri will look to bounce back when they host Mississippi State this Saturday, January 31, 2026. Tip-off is set for 2:30 p.m.

The takeaway

Missouri's backcourt issues continue to be a persistent problem, as the Tigers struggle to find consistency at the point guard position. With their NCAA Tournament hopes fading, the Tigers will need to quickly turn things around in order to keep their postseason aspirations alive.