Tulsa vs Missouri State

Overview

The Tulsa Golden Hurricane (7-1) will host the Missouri State Bears (4-3) on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at the Donald W. Reynolds Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma. This non-conference matchup is significant for both teams as they prepare for their respective conference schedules. The game is set to tip off at 3:00 PM CST and will be broadcast on ESPN+. (espn.com)

Season Snapshot

Tulsa Golden Hurricane

Tulsa enters this game with a 7-1 record, including a perfect 3-0 at home. The Golden Hurricane have demonstrated a potent offense, averaging 86.5 points per game, which ranks them among the top-scoring teams in the nation. Their defense has also been effective, allowing 67.4 points per game. Notably, Tulsa has won five of their last six games, showcasing strong form as they approach this matchup. (foxsports.com)

Missouri State Bears

The Bears come into this game with a 4-3 record, including an 0-1 mark on the road. They have been scoring an average of 79.3 points per game, while conceding 70.4 points per game. Missouri State is coming off a decisive 92-71 victory against the Northeastern State River Hawks, where Kobi Williams led the team with 24 points. (foxsports.com)

Recent Form

Tulsa has been on a strong run, winning five of their last six games. Their most recent performance was a dominant 111-60 victory over Manhattan Christian, where Ian Smikle contributed 10 points, eight rebounds, and two assists in just 16 minutes of play. (foxsports.com)

Missouri State's recent form includes a 92-71 win against Northeastern State, with Kobi Williams scoring 24 points. However, they have yet to secure a win on the road this season, which could be a concern as they face a strong Tulsa team on their home court. (foxsports.com)

Talking Points

• Tulsa's Home Advantage: With a perfect 3-0 record at home, Tulsa has demonstrated strong performances on their home court.

• Missouri State's Road Challenges: The Bears have struggled away from home, with an 0-1 record in road games this season.

• Offensive Firepower: Tulsa's high-scoring offense faces a test against Missouri State's capable attack.

• Key Player Performances: The impact of players like Kobi Williams for Missouri State and Ian Smikle for Tulsa could be pivotal.

• Coaching Strategies: How both teams' coaching staffs prepare and adjust will be crucial in this matchup.

Players to Watch

• Kobi Williams (Missouri State): Scored 24 points in the recent win against Northeastern State, showcasing his scoring ability. (foxsports.com)

• Ian Smikle (Tulsa): Contributed 10 points, eight rebounds, and two assists in just 16 minutes during the win over Manhattan Christian. (foxsports.com)

• Miles Barnstable (Tulsa): Averaging 14.9 points per game, he has been a consistent scorer for the Golden Hurricane. (foxsports.com)

• David Green (Tulsa): Averaging 14.3 points and 5.3 rebounds per game, he provides a strong presence in the paint. (foxsports.com)

• Keith Palek III (Missouri State): Leading the Bears with 17.0 points per game, he is a key offensive weapon. (espn.com)

Key Matchups & Storylines

• Tulsa's Offense vs. Missouri State's Defense: Tulsa's high-scoring offense will be tested against Missouri State's defense, which has allowed 70.4 points per game.

• Home Court Advantage: Tulsa's perfect home record could play a significant role in this matchup.

• Key Player Battles: The performances of Kobi Williams and Keith Palek III for Missouri State against Tulsa's Miles Barnstable and David Green will be crucial.

Fun Facts

• Triple-Overtime Thriller: The last meeting between these teams on November 16, 2024, ended with Missouri State winning 111-106 in triple overtime. (foxsports.com)

• Coaching Milestone: Missouri State's head coach, Cuonzo Martin, is approaching his 75th win at the helm of the Bears. (bvmsports.com)

• National Ranking: Missouri State ranks 7th in Division I for free throw rate at 52.8. (bvmsports.com)

Things to Chirp About

• "Can Tulsa maintain their perfect home record against a strong Missouri State team?"

• "Will Kobi Williams continue his high-scoring ways for the Bears?"

• "How will Tulsa's offense fare against Missouri State's defense?"

• "Is Cuonzo Martin on the verge of his 75th win with the Bears?"

Prediction

Tulsa's strong home performance and high-scoring offense give them an edge in this matchup. However, Missouri State's capable offense and recent win suggest they could challenge the Golden Hurricane. The game is expected to be competitive, with Tulsa slightly favored to secure the victory.