Missouri Tigers men’s basketball snagged four-star guard Aaron Rowe as the headliner for their 2025 recruiting class. The Columbia native brings a flashy skill set to his hometown team, posing as one of two freshmen on the team.
It can be difficult for freshmen to find their role in a solidified system. Between adjusting to the speed and physicality of the Southeastern Conference, along with finding a niche within the system, the 6-foot-2, 155-pound Rowe will have his hands full trying to find his footing. However, Rowe should fit right in with the program, as head coach Dennis Gates has had plenty of experience developing young guards in seasons prior.
“There’s nothing T.O. Barrett could do correct last year in practice. It’s just how I have to make sure they’re positioning themselves to lead.” Coach Gates said, “Aaron Rowe is gonna take a little bit of that this year, and he has been, and his job is to smile when Coach Gates gets on him.”
Rowe knows that he won’t be Missouri’s star player right away. Junior Anthony Robinson II and senior Mark Mitchell are going to be commanding the majority of touches and attention on offense. In order for Rowe to get involved and be impactful, he’s had to focus on the little things.
“I think I’d be a really nice playmaker,” Rowe said. “I’ll be able to push the pace for the team, and kind of control, like, our offense.”
Offensively, Rowe brings a slashing and playmaking ability that the Tigers need. He utilizes athleticism on drives, blowing past defenders with ease and consistently finishing above the rim. Rowe pairs his quick-twitch athletic ability with a tight handle, allowing him to handle defensive pressure and utilize ball screens. Rowe’s shooting touch remains a bit of a question, but his consistent willingness to shoot and his touch around the basket suggest he has a high-end upside as a shooter.
Although undersized, he’s willing to buy in on defense as well.
“Be a pest on defense and play 94 feet,” Rowe said. “I’m just trying to help lead our team, and just do whatever it takes to get a win.”
On defense, Rowe is what he says he is – an absolute pest. His lateral quickness and agility shine through on tape, and he uses them to his advantage on every play. Rowe hounds opposing ball-handlers, turning them constantly and bumping them around, all while keeping his hands active, getting steals and deflections. Rowe’s slight frame does allow bigger guards to play through his chest and get to the basket, but his instincts and athleticism more than make up for what he lacks physically.
Rowe is excited to have the opportunity to play for his hometown school.
“I just think it would be really fun, really exciting experience,” Rowe said. “Getting to play in my hometown, being in front of my fans and trying to show out for my city.”
Playing at Missouri means a lot to Rowe, and he’s excited to make an impact for the Tigers.
