30 Facts About Missouri Tigers Men’s Basketball

History of Missouri Tigers Men's Basketball

The Missouri Tigers men's basketball team has a rich history filled with memorable moments and achievements. Here are some fascinating facts about their journey through the years.

1. The team was established in 1906, making it one of the oldest college basketball programs in the United States.
2. Missouri Tigers have made 28 NCAA Tournament appearances, showcasing their consistent performance over the decades.
3. The Tigers have reached the Elite Eight round of the NCAA Tournament five times, with their most recent appearance in 2009.
4. Norm Stewart, the legendary coach, led the team from 1967 to 1999, amassing 634 wins during his tenure.
5. The Tigers have won 15 conference championships, including eight regular-season titles in the Big Eight Conference.

Memorable Players

Over the years, many talented players have donned the Missouri Tigers jersey. Here are some of the most notable ones.

6. Derrick Chievous, also known as "Band-Aid Man," is the all-time leading scorer for the Tigers with 2,580 points.
7. Anthony Peeler, a standout guard, was named Big Eight Player of the Year in 1992 and went on to have a successful NBA career.
8. Doug Smith, a dominant forward, was a two-time Big Eight Player of the Year and the sixth overall pick in the 1991 NBA Draft.
9. Kareem Rush, known for his sharpshooting, helped lead the Tigers to the Elite Eight in 2002 and later played in the NBA.
10. Jordan Clarkson, a versatile guard, played one season with the Tigers before being drafted by the Washington Wizards in 2014.

Iconic Games and Moments

The Missouri Tigers have been part of some unforgettable games and moments that have left a lasting impact on fans.

11. In 1994, the Tigers went undefeated in the Big Eight Conference, finishing the regular season with a perfect 14-0 record.
12. The 1990-91 season saw the Tigers achieve a school-record 14-game winning streak.
13. In 2012, Missouri won the Big 12 Tournament, defeating Baylor in the championship game.
14. The Tigers' rivalry with the Kansas Jayhawks, known as the "Border War," is one of the most intense and historic rivalries in college basketball.
15. In 2009, Missouri defeated Memphis in the Sweet 16, advancing to the Elite Eight for the first time since 2002.

Coaches and Leadership

The success of the Missouri Tigers men's basketball team can be attributed to the leadership and guidance of their coaches.

16. Norm Stewart, the longest-serving coach, was inducted into the College Basketball Hall of Fame in 2007.
17. Mike Anderson, who coached the Tigers from 2006 to 2011, led the team to three NCAA Tournament appearances.
18. Frank Haith, head coach from 2011 to 2014, guided the Tigers to a 30-5 record in his first season, earning him National Coach of the Year honors.
19. Cuonzo Martin, the current head coach, has brought stability and a renewed sense of optimism to the program since his arrival in 2017.
20. Quin Snyder, who coached from 1999 to 2006, is now a successful NBA coach with the Utah Jazz.

Home Court Advantage

The Tigers' home court has played a significant role in their success, providing a formidable environment for visiting teams.

21. Mizzou Arena, the current home of the Tigers, opened in 2004 and has a seating capacity of 15,061.
22. The Tigers have a strong home-court advantage, with a winning percentage of over .700 at Mizzou Arena.
23. Before Mizzou Arena, the Tigers played at the Hearnes Center, which hosted many memorable games from 1972 to 2004.
24. The student section, known as "The Antlers," is famous for its passionate and creative support of the team.
25. The Tigers have a tradition of playing "Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor before home games, energizing the crowd and players alike.

Achievements and Records

The Missouri Tigers men's basketball team has set numerous records and achieved significant milestones throughout its history.

26. The Tigers have produced 33 NBA Draft picks, including 12 first-round selections.
27. Missouri has had 19 players named to All-American teams, recognizing their outstanding individual performances.
28. The Tigers have recorded over 1,600 wins in their history, placing them among the top programs in college basketball.
29. Missouri has had 10 players score over 1,500 points in their careers, highlighting the program's offensive prowess.
30. The Tigers have consistently ranked among the top teams in the nation in terms of attendance, demonstrating the strong support of their fan base.

The Final Buzzer

Missouri Tigers Men's Basketball has a rich history filled with memorable moments and remarkable achievements. From their storied rivalries to legendary coaches, the team has left an indelible mark on college basketball. Their dedicated fan base and competitive spirit continue to drive the team forward, season after season. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just curious about the sport, the Tigers' journey offers something for everyone. As they look to the future, the Tigers aim to build on their legacy, striving for even greater success. Keep an eye on this team; their story is far from over. Thanks for joining us on this quick dive into the world of Missouri Tigers Men's Basketball. Stay tuned for more exciting updates and facts about your favorite teams and sports.