Missouri basketball added size and potential to its frontcourt by securing a commitment from 6-foot-11 forward Bryson Tiller, a Kansas redshirt freshman starter last season. Tiller becomes the Tigers’ third acquisition from the transfer portal.
Tiller started 31 games for the Jayhawks, averaging 7.9 points, 6.1 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game.
His arrival addresses a significant frontcourt need — given that Missouri lost four of five starters from this past season — and looks to give the Tigers an immediate defensive presence in the paint.
Aside from junior Trent Pierce, who developed into a dependable third scoring option last season, many of Missouri’s returners are still developing. Tiller’s Power Five experience should relieve pressure on the group and allow redshirt freshman center Trent Burns to continue his progression. Burns appeared in 22 games last season, often backing up senior Shawn Phillips Jr., but is now expected to take on an expanded role.
Tiller has shown the ability to impact games on both ends — in December, he blocked five shots and scored 13 against Missouri, and in February, he recorded 18 points and eight rebounds in an upset of then-No. 1 Arizona. Consistency was at times an issue for Tiller, such as his scoreless outing in Kansas’ NCAA Tournament loss to St. John’s.
Still, Tiller’s shot blocking and rim protection should fit head coach Dennis Gates’ plans.
With incoming five-star guard Jason Crowe Jr. expected to help drive a high-paced offense, Tiller won’t be asked to carry the scoring load every night. Instead, his defensive instincts and interior presence should provide the stabilizing spine the Tigers need to compete in the Southeastern Conference.
If Tiller builds on the flashes he showed at Kansas, he could be the frontcourt anchor Missouri lacked last season.
Follow along with The Maneater for continued coverage of Missouri basketball’s offseason moves.
