Men’s Basketball Tips Off 2025-26 Season at Howard Monday Night
The Mizzou men’s basketball team is set to launch their 2025-26 season with an exciting matchup against Howard. The game will take place on Monday night at Howard’s arena in Washington, D.C., with tipoff scheduled for 6 p.m. CT and broadcasting live on ESPN.
About the Mizzou Tigers
The Tigers concluded the 2024-25 season with a record of 22 wins and 12 losses. They finished in sixth place in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) after posting a 10-8 record. This performance secured their second NCAA Tournament bid in three years under head coach Dennis Gates. Mizzou, seeded sixth in the tournament, attained their best seeding since 2012.
This season, Mizzou is unique in the SEC, returning three starters: Mark Mitchell, Trent Pierce, and Anthony Robinson II. Overall, the team features seven players from last year, alongside five transfers and two freshman additions.
Exhibition Performance
Mizzou had a strong exhibition match on October 24, defeating Kansas State 100-91 at Mizzou Arena. A decisive 14-0 scoring run early in the game helped establish a commanding lead, which grew to 19 points. Four Tigers scored in double digits during the game:
- Anthony Robinson II – 16 points
- Jayden Stone – 16 points
- Annor Boateng – 15 points
- Shawn Phillips Jr. – 14 points
Phillips also recorded a double-double with 10 rebounds, while Robinson contributed four assists.
Overview of the Howard Bison
Howard finished the previous season with a 12-20 record, achieving a 7-7 mark in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC). The team faces challenges as they need to replace their top seven scorers. However, MEAC Preseason Player of the Year Bryce Harris returns after scoring 67 points in just seven games due to injury. The Bison have claimed the MEAC title in two of the last three seasons under coach Kenny Blakeney.
Series History
The upcoming game marks only the second meeting between Mizzou and Howard, following last season’s encounter at Mizzou Arena, where the Tigers tasted victory with a score of 77-62. Mizzou led throughout that matchup, with notable performances from:
- Tamar Bates – 17 points
- Mark Mitchell – 16 points and 8 rebounds
- Anthony Robinson II – 13 points
Mizzou vs. MEAC
Mizzou boasts an impressive 18-3 all-time record against MEAC teams. This game will be the Tigers’ first true road contest against a MEAC opponent, with the majority of their previous meetings taking place at home.
Mizzou’s Season Opener History
The Tigers are set to kick off their 120th season on the road at Howard. Historically, Mizzou has performed well in season openers, holding a record of 96 wins and 23 losses, amounting to an 80.7% winning rate. Last year, they started their season on the road but lost to Memphis.
Key Players and Returning Experience
Mizzou looks to capitalize on returning talent, with three starters from last season. Mark Mitchell holds the distinction of leading scorer, averaging 13.9 points per game last season and obtaining All-SEC Preseason Second Team honors this year. Mitchell’s shooting percentage was an impressive 50.5%, and he led the team in free-throw attempts and makes.
This season promises to be an exciting one for Mizzou as they aim to leverage their returning experience and budding talent against Howard in their season opener.
