Preview: Florida Gators at Missouri Tigers

COLUMBIA, Mo. (Interstat) — Two teams looking to establish early Southeastern Conference momentum will meet Saturday when the Florida Gators visit the Missouri Tigers at Mizzou Arena.

The matchup features Florida (9-4) and Missouri (10-3), both coming off extended holiday breaks. The Gators have won four straight, including a 94-72 victory over Dartmouth on Dec. 29. Missouri last played on Dec. 22, suffering a 91-48 road loss to then-Illinois.

Florida’s surge has been fueled by versatile forward Alex Condon. Over his last five games, the sophomore is averaging 13.2 points, 5.2 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 1.8 blocks per contest, showcasing an all-around game. He posted a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds in a win over Colgate on Dec. 21.

Missouri will counter with guard Sebastian Mack, who led the Tigers with 17 points in the loss to Illinois. His scoring has been inconsistent, however, with totals of 1, 10 and 3 points in his three games prior.

The Gators’ current win streak follows a tough two-point loss at Duke on Dec. 2. Their offense has averaged 91.5 points during the four-game stretch. Missouri’s record is bolstered by a perfect 8-0 start at home, though their schedule strengthens significantly with this SEC opener.

A key battle will be inside, where Florida’s Condon will test a Missouri frontcourt featuring Mark Mitchell. The Tigers must improve upon their 31.7% shooting performance at Illinois to challenge a Florida defense allowing just 68.2 points per game during its winning streak.

This contest opens the conference slate for both programs. Florida begins a three-game road swing before hosting Georgia on Jan. 6. Missouri hits the road for its next two, visiting Kentucky on Jan. 7 and Mississippi on Jan. 10.

Tipoff is set for Saturday afternoon. The game will be broadcast on the SEC Network.