ST. LOUIS (AP) – Missouri is unbeaten, but far from cocky, entering the annual Braggin’ Rights game against Illinois.
The 23rd-ranked Tigers realize their 10-0 start, and their four-game winning streak in the series, will mean little at tip-off of the 33rd renewal of the neutral-site matchup known for its boisterous sellout crowds – half rooting for each team.
Illinois is 9-2 and facing its second straight ranked opponent after losing at Oregon a week ago. Coach John Groce said the key will be containing Missouri’s perimeter game. The Fighting Illini are unranked for the Missouri game for the first time in four years.
Only three Missouri players – Jabari Brown, Earnest Ross and Tony Criswell – have experience in the series. Brown started last year’s 82-73 victory.
Missouri is 3-0 at neutral sites thus far, beating Hawaii in Kansas City and topping Northwestern and Nevada in Las Vegas.
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