The University of Missouri and Saint Louis University announced a three‑year agreement that will revive the storied men’s basketball rivalry that last saw action in 1999, ending a 25‑year hiatus. The series, which dates back to 1931, will restart with its first contest on November 6 at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis, a venue that previously hosted the Tigers’ Braggin’ Rights matchup with Illinois.
A Renewed Rivalry on the Horizon
Both coaches expressed enthusiasm for the matchup. Josh Schertz, the Billikens’ head coach, noted that Dennis Gates, his counterpart at Missouri, was the one who reached out to restart the competition, emphasizing that the rivalry offers each program a chance to boost its NCAA tournament résumé and generate revenue. Schertz highlighted the intangible benefits, saying the rivalry helps both schools attract recruits and build momentum toward tournament qualification, while Gates said he is excited for the fans across the state who have long awaited the clash.
Adding a personal touch, returning Billikens standout Kellen Thames, whose father Kelly Thames once starred for the Tigers, will be joined by assistant Corey Tate, whose memorable shot remains a touchstone in Missouri basketball lore. The upcoming games will also serve as the centerpiece of the annual Braggin’ Rights weekend, though ticket pricing and broadcast details have yet to be announced. Both schools’ conferences have secured television partnerships with ESPN, ensuring wide coverage of the renewed rivalry.
The renewed schedule promises at least three meetings over the next three seasons, each played on the same hardwood that witnessed the last encounter in 2001. With both programs eyeing deeper tournament runs, the stakes will be higher than ever, and the atmosphere in St. Louis is expected to be electric.