Missouri’s men’s basketball team is set for a markedly tougher non‑conference slate this season, a strategic shift announced by head coach Dennis Gates that pits the Tigers against a lineup of nationally respected programs.
A Schedule Designed for NET Gains
The new slate includes home and neutral‑site contests against Nebraska, Pittsburgh, Saint Louis, Marquette and an exhibition game against UNLV in Las Vegas. Each opponent brings a different style of play and a boost to the Tigers’ strength‑of‑schedule metrics.
In past seasons the non‑conference schedule was often criticized as being too soft, limiting the team’s ability to climb the NET rankings. Gates believes that facing teams such as the Cornhuskers, who have risen under coach Fred Hoiberg, will provide the Tigers with the résumé needed for a deeper NCAA Tournament run.
The first meeting with Nebraska since 2011 adds a historic angle, while the matchup with Pittsburgh will be part of the SEC/ACC Challenge, a showcase event that draws national attention. A neutral‑site game against Saint Louis at the Enterprise Center will rekindle a rivalry that has been dormant for a quarter of a century.
Missouri will also test itself against the Marquette Golden Eagles in the 2026 Legends Classic at the United Center in Chicago, and the exhibition against UNLV in Las Vegas will give freshmen like Jason Crowe Jr. a national platform to make an early impression.
Beyond the wins and losses, the schedule is intended to give top recruit Jason Crowe Jr. exposure on a national stage, while also rewarding the program’s fan base with high‑stakes basketball. The tougher slate could elevate the Tigers’ NET ranking and secure another NCAA Tournament berth.
Looking Ahead
Coach Dennis Gates, who has led the Tigers for four years and guided them to three NCAA Tournament appearances, sees the schedule as a catalyst for building momentum heading into conference play. With a blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, the team hopes to translate these challenging games into a stronger postseason profile.