Missouri Coach Dennis Gates Praises Team's Defense Ahead of Texas A&M Matchup

Gates reflects on the Tigers' recent win over South Carolina and looks ahead to their upcoming SEC clash with the Aggies.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Missouri Tigers head coach Dennis Gates spoke to the media on Tuesday, reflecting on his team's recent 78-59 road win over South Carolina and looking ahead to their upcoming SEC matchup against Texas A&M. Gates praised his team's defensive effort, particularly from players like T.O. Barrett and Anthony Robinson II, and noted that the Tigers will need continued strong defensive play to slow down the Aggies' unique style of play under first-year head coach Bucky McMillan.

Why it matters

Missouri is fighting to earn more wins in the SEC before the conference tournament and March Madness, and their upcoming game against Texas A&M represents a tough test. The Aggies have exceeded expectations this season under McMillan's leadership, and the Tigers will need to bring their best defensive effort to slow down A&M's unselfish, tough, and well-executed style of play.

The details

Gates highlighted the Tigers' need for more consistent rebounding and shot-contesting on the defensive end, while also avoiding unnecessary fouls. He singled out the strong on-ball defense of Barrett and Robinson, as well as the versatility provided by wings Trent Pierce and Jacob Crews. Gates also praised the Aggies' roster construction, noting that McMillan has quickly built a competitive team by adding 10 transfers and two high school recruits, creating a style of play that has been difficult for opponents to prepare for.

  • Missouri and Texas A&M will tip off at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, February 14, 2026 in College Station, Texas.
  • Missouri picked up a 78-59 road win over South Carolina on February 7, 2026.

The players

Dennis Gates

The head coach of the Missouri Tigers men's basketball team.

Bucky McMillan

The first-year head coach of the Texas A&M Aggies men's basketball team, who previously coached at Samford and was a successful high school coach.

T.O. Barrett

The sophomore point guard for the Missouri Tigers, who has emerged as an elite on-ball defender this season.

Anthony Robinson II

A Missouri Tigers guard who has also stepped up on the defensive end despite struggles on offense.

Trent Pierce

A wing player for the Missouri Tigers who has used his length and athleticism to provide defensive versatility.

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What they’re saying

“It's just a matter of experience. I think our guys are getting better game by game, being able to know and practice those reps, whereas before we wasn't able to do it. It's just that simple.”

— Dennis Gates, Missouri Tigers Head Coach (SI.com)

“We have depth. Do we need players to play better? Absolutely. I need, you know, Luke Northweather, Trent Burns (and) Nicholas Randall to step up. One of those three guys gotta step up for us as we continue on (in) the month of February. But our team is doing a good job, and the gelling part is the most important.”

— Dennis Gates, Missouri Tigers Head Coach (SI.com)

“It's the style of play that is so different and foreign to many that allows success in addition to players being able to make plays. He has some great players on his team. They're very unselfish. They may not have five stars by their name, but they have five-star hearts. They have five-star toughness. They have five-star execution.”

— Dennis Gates, Missouri Tigers Head Coach (SI.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.