LSU vs. Missouri – Game Review (83-67) – January 8, 2025

The SEC matchup between LSU and Missouri on January 8, 2025, was an exciting contest that saw the Tigers of LSU pull away in the second half, clinching an 83-67 victory. This game was pivotal for both teams as they look to build momentum in the SEC standings for the second half of the season. The matchup showcased high energy, strategic play, and individual brilliance, with LSU asserting their dominance after a closely contested first half.

Pre-game Expectations

Heading into this game, LSU was seen as the favorite due to their recent strong performances and their balanced team dynamics. Missouri, on the other hand, had been struggling to find consistency but possessed the potential to surprise opponents with explosive offensive play and a competitive defense. The key question leading into the game was how well Missouri could handle LSU’s depth and talent, especially in a hostile road environment.

First Half – Competitive and Close

The opening minutes of the game were tightly contested, with both teams exchanging leads multiple times. LSU’s defense, known for its aggressive full-court pressure, was up to the task, but Missouri’s quick ball movement and outside shooting kept them in the game. LSU’s defense did a decent job of limiting Missouri’s high-scoring guard play early on, forcing difficult shots. However, Missouri’s ability to shoot from beyond the arc kept them within striking distance, with their guards hitting timely three-pointers to challenge LSU’s lead.

For LSU, the team relied heavily on their top scorer, who capitalized on both offensive rebounds and fast breaks to keep the momentum in their favor. Despite LSU’s solid offense, Missouri’s fast-paced transition game and hustle on defense prevented the game from slipping too far out of hand.

As the first half wore on, the teams were neck and neck, with Missouri staying competitive through a combination of efficient shooting and a couple of fast-break opportunities. LSU led by just a few points heading into the break, but it was clear that the game was far from decided. Both teams showed promise, but LSU seemed to have more depth on both ends of the floor.

Second Half – LSU’s Surge to Victory

The second half was where LSU really started to pull away. Coach Matt McMahon made key adjustments at the break, tightening up the defense and running more plays to get the ball inside to their big men. LSU’s offense began to flow more smoothly, with improved ball movement and more efficient shooting.

LSU’s dominant big man inside became a focal point, overwhelming Missouri’s defenders and forcing the Tigers to collapse inside. This created open looks for LSU’s shooters on the perimeter, who capitalized on these opportunities. Missouri, meanwhile, struggled to generate offense, and their defensive rotations became slower as fatigue set in.

A key turning point in the game came when LSU went on a 10-0 run in the middle of the second half. During this stretch, LSU’s defense was suffocating, limiting Missouri to contested shots and securing multiple defensive rebounds. Offensively, LSU executed crisp passes and finished with high-percentage shots. Their ability to run the floor in transition was also evident during this run, with several fast-break opportunities leading to easy buckets.

On the other hand, Missouri could not find an answer. Their three-point shooting, which had kept them in the game during the first half, went cold in the second, and LSU’s defense clamped down on the perimeter. The absence of a reliable inside presence for Missouri further exacerbated their struggles, as they were unable to exploit LSU’s defense effectively.

Key Players – Standout Performances

Several players stood out in this game, particularly for LSU:

• LSU’s Star Guard: LSU’s leading scorer and primary ball handler delivered a stellar performance, particularly in the second half. His ability to create scoring opportunities for both himself and his teammates was on full display. He was effective both off the dribble and as a playmaker, finishing with a team-high 20+ points, along with several assists. His leadership and calmness under pressure were critical in LSU’s late-game surge.
• LSU’s Big Men: The interior presence of LSU’s forwards and center was a major factor in their victory. They dominated the paint, both defensively and offensively. Rebounding was a key aspect of the game, with LSU’s bigs securing multiple offensive boards and limiting Missouri’s second-chance opportunities. LSU’s size and physicality proved too much for Missouri to handle inside.
• Missouri’s Guard Play: Despite the loss, Missouri’s guard play stood out. Their lead guard, who was the primary offensive weapon, continued to score and facilitate for his teammates. He contributed 18+ points but was unable to carry his team to a victory with the lack of support from the rest of the roster.
• LSU’s Defensive Effort: LSU’s defensive players, particularly those on the perimeter, did an excellent job of limiting Missouri’s shooting. Missouri’s best shooters were forced into contested shots, and LSU’s athleticism helped them outpace Missouri in transition after defensive stops.

Team Analysis: LSU’s Strengths and Improvements

LSU’s victory showcased many of the strengths that have made them a formidable opponent this season. Their depth is one of their biggest assets, with multiple players contributing both offensively and defensively. The balanced scoring attack, alongside tough defense and the ability to capitalize on transition opportunities, kept LSU in control of the game. However, the game did reveal a few areas that could be improved:

• Consistency in First Half: Although LSU managed to control the game in the second half, their first-half performance showed that they can be vulnerable to teams that are capable of quick bursts of offense. If LSU hopes to challenge for higher rankings, consistency over the full 40 minutes will be key.
• Guard Play: LSU’s backcourt showed flashes of brilliance, but at times, they struggled to execute in half-court settings. While they were able to execute in transition, they need to improve in slowing down the game and running set plays against well-organized defenses.

Missouri’s Struggles

Missouri’s loss highlighted several weaknesses that they will need to address as the season progresses:

• Lack of Offensive Depth: While their lead guard performed admirably, Missouri struggled to get consistent contributions from other players. Their reliance on outside shooting is concerning, as teams like LSU will close out on shooters and force them into tougher situations. Missouri will need to find more ways to score inside and balance their offensive attack.
• Defensive Lapses: Missouri’s defense, which had been a strength in earlier games, faltered in the second half. LSU’s dominance in the paint exposed Missouri’s lack of a true rim protector, and their perimeter defense was not tight enough to prevent LSU’s shooters from getting open looks.

Key Moments of the Game

• The 10-0 Run by LSU: This was the game’s most defining stretch. During this run, LSU tightened its defense, forced turnovers, and scored easy points in transition, all while Missouri struggled to find any rhythm offensively.
• LSU’s Inside Domination: Whenever LSU needed a basket, they often turned to their big men, who were too much for Missouri’s frontcourt. Their dominance inside helped to widen the gap in the second half.