No. 13 Illinois Claims Braggin’ Rights

ST. LOUIS, Mo. – The University of Missouri Tigers lost the 2023 edition of the McBride Home Braggin’ Rights game to No. 13 Illinois, 97-73. The loss moves Mizzou to 7-5 for the season, while the nationally-ranked Fighting Illini improve to 9-2 with their win

Sean East II led the way for the Tigers, logging 18 points, including two triples, two rebounds, and two assists. Freshman Trent Pierce chipped in 12 points in his first collegiate start, while junior Tamar Bates added 10 points.

Noah Carter opened the scoring in the contest, finding nylon on a layup to put Mizzou up early. After the bucket, however, Illinois would find its footing. The Illini defense caused the Tigers to fall into a cold stretch from the field early in the frame, as they were forced into a 2-of-12 shooting streak. The Illini would capitalize on the opportunity and their hot shooting and ability to get to the free-throw line led to a 49-24 advantage at the break.

East II and Pierce would each collect a pair of buckets early in the second half, combining for 10 points in the opening two and a half minutes of the frame. Mizzou continued to fight, pulling as close as 17, 65-48, with more 11 minutes remaining. However, Illinois closed out the game and reclaimed Braggin’ Rights from MU.

Mizzou was outshot in the game, 49.2 percent to 39.2 percent. The Tigers held the advantage in steals eight to five, and the teams were tied with four blocks and 40 points in the paint a piece.

UP NEXT
The Tigers make their return to Mizzou Arena for the first time in nearly four weeks on Saturday, Dec. 30 to face the visiting Central Arkansas Bears. Tipoff is slated for 2 p.m. and the game can be viewed on SEC Network.