2009-2010 Missouri Predictions
2008-09 Record: (31-7, 12-4 Big 12)
Coach: Mike Anderson (4th year, 65-35 at Missouri)
Assistants: Melvin Watkins, Matt Zimmerman, T.J. Cleveland
Ret. Starters/Lost: 2/3

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Overview: Mizzou loses a ton of talent, including F DeMarre Carroll (16.6ppg, 7.2rpg), who helped lead the Tigers to the Elite Eight. Fortunately, the backcourt should remain strong led by point guard Zaire Taylor (6-4, 189), who averaged 6.7ppg and 3.4apg. Taylor was known more for hitting clutch shots against Texas and Kansas. At wing guard, senior J.T. Tiller (8.4ppg, 3.6apg) is an outstanding defender, who was named co-Defender of the Year, and also led the team in steals. A big key will be the play of sophomore Kim English (6-6, 200), an excellent three-point shooter, who averaged 6.5ppg off the bench. Sophomore Marcus Demon (6-2, 185), who averaged 6ppg, is also a key reserve. Up front, they loss of Carroll and Leo Lyons (14.6ppg, 6.1rpg) will be devastating. Senior Keith Ramsey (6-9, 210) is the only big man with experience. Junior Justin Safford (6-8, 205) adds some shooting ability, but played sparingly last year. Sophomore Steve Moore (6-9, 265) lost 30 pounds and that should improve his mobility.

Outlook: The Tigers should take a pretty big fall of last year’s Elite Eight team. But with good guard play, they won’t be easy to knock out.

This Big 12 conference prediction is courtesy of the ATS Sports Blog. If you are looking for winning college basketball betting picks be sure to choose ATS Consultants this year, A featured sports handicapping service on Touthouse.com