Dennis Gates contends Mizzou will finish ‘a lot higher’ in SEC despite lower NIL budget
By Ethan Stone
Published:
Dennis Gates’ Missouri Tigers finished last season 9th in the SEC and lost in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Tournament. This year, after some roster tinkering, Gates is determined to finish a lot higher in conference play.
Duh.
This week, Gates admitted that the Tigers program is working with a lower NIL budget compared to some teams considered to be among the best in the SEC this season. Still, he mentioned that he’s relying on his coaching abilities to get the job done — not a dollar amount.
“I’m excited about finishing a lot higher in the SEC, with a budget that is not resembling anything close to my counterparts,” Gates said. “That’s coaching.”
There’s a lot to like about Gates’ squad this year. It starts with McDonalds All-Americans Jason Crowe Jr and Toni Bryant, both 5-star prospects who ranked among the best in the 2026 recruiting class. Mark Mitchell and Trent Pierce are also back for more, providing veteran experience and a nice mix of young and veteran talent. Finally, the Tigers added former Jayhawk Bryson Tiller to hold down the 5-spot.
Mizzou is set to tip off its 2026-27 campaign on Tuesday, Nov. 3 against Cleveland State.
Ethan Stone is a Saturday Down South News Editor and an advocate for the return of the Seattle Supersonics.
