Missouri Faces Tough Test Against Physically Dominant Tennessee

Tigers look to limit fouls and match Vols' size on the boards in key SEC matchup

Feb. 23, 2026 at 11:24pm

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Missouri is entering the final stretch of its regular season, looking to earn a spot in the NCAA Tournament. That quest continues with a home matchup against No. 22 Tennessee on Tuesday. Tigers head coach Dennis Gates acknowledged the challenges the Volunteers will present, particularly their physical, rebounding-focused style of play that has drawn a high number of fouls from opponents. Gates emphasized the need for Missouri to play aggressively without fouling excessively, as well as to match Tennessee's size and dominance on the glass.

Why it matters

This game is crucial for Missouri's NCAA Tournament hopes, as the Tigers look to secure a signature win over a ranked opponent. Tennessee's physical, rebounding-oriented approach has proven difficult for many teams to handle, so Missouri will need to find the right balance between playing tough defense without committing too many fouls.

The details

Missouri has struggled with foul trouble in recent games, with multiple players reaching the limit in their loss to Arkansas. Gates wants his team to play physically but avoid unnecessary fouls, particularly away from the basket. Tennessee has drawn at least 20 fouls in every SEC game this season, thanks to their size and strength inside. The Volunteers' starting lineup averages 6'8" in height, with another 6'8" forward coming off the bench. Junior forward Jalen Carey is a key part of Tennessee's imposing frontcourt.

  • Missouri and Tennessee will face off on Tuesday, February 25, 2026.

The players

Dennis Gates

The head coach of the Missouri Tigers basketball team.

Jalen Carey

A 6'8" junior forward for the Tennessee Volunteers, known for his physical play and rebounding ability.

T.O. Barrett

A guard for the Missouri Tigers who has struggled with foul trouble in recent games.

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What they’re saying

“Be physical, but do it without fouling. And that comes down to positioning. It comes down to anticipation. It comes down to just being aware and understanding what risk to take and what risk not to take.”

— Dennis Gates, Head Coach, Missouri Tigers

“They just try to physically punish you from inside out. And their guards make plays, and there's a healthy balance of it, so we have to do our job and play well without fouling, and play physical, because that team does pose that risk of physically just annihilating you.”

— Dennis Gates, Head Coach, Missouri Tigers

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 game will test Missouri's ability to balance physical, aggressive play with disciplined defense, as they look to limit fouls and match Tennessee's size and rebounding prowess. The outcome could have significant implications for the Tigers' NCAA Tournament aspirations.