Another well-known player will join the Missouri Tigers men’s basketball team for the upcoming campaign. Redshirt freshman will remain in Columbia when he begins his second season of eligibility, according to a post from On3 on X. Due to a persistent foot issue, 7-foot-5 center Burns found it difficult to play during his rookie season. Burns was finally allowed to play after having foot surgery before the start of this season and taking a redshirt year.
After senior Shawn Phillips Jr., he was the Tigers’ first big man off the bench in the closing minutes. All but one of the last seven games of the season saw Burns play more than ten minutes. He demonstrated his defensive brilliance despite averaging just 2.0 points and 1.8 rebounds per game. Mizzou coach Dennis Gates has some continuity in the frontcourt going into the 2026–27 season thanks to Burns’ retention. Mizzou will continue to want to acquire more depth at the center position even after Phillips graduates.
He was the Tigers’ first big man off the bench in the final minutes after senior Shawn Phillips Jr. Burns played more than 10 minutes in all but one of the final seven games of the season. Despite averaging only 2.0 points and 1.8 rebounds per game, he showed off his defensive prowess. Burns’ retention gives Mizzou coach Dennis Gates some continuity in the frontcourt for the 2026–2027 campaign. Even when Phillips graduates, Mizzou will still want to add more depth at the center position.
