Preview: Missouri Tigers at Kansas Jayhawks LAWRENCE, Kan. (Interstat) — A pivotal early-season test awaits the eighth-ranked Missouri Tigers as they visit the Kansas Jayhawks at Allen Fieldhouse on Sunday in a renewal of the Border War rivalry. Missouri (8-1) arrives with its highest ranking in years but is looking to rebound from its first loss, a 71-76 defeat at Notre Dame on Tuesday. The Tigers’ high-powered offense, which has topped 98 points four times this season, was slowed by the Fighting Irish. Forward Mark Mitchell has been the catalyst, averaging 17.9 points per game. He scored a season-high 26 in the loss at Notre Dame. Kansas (6-3) has navigated a difficult non-conference schedule, with all three losses coming against current Top 25 opponents, including a 56-61 home loss to Connecticut on Tuesday. The Jayhawks have relied heavily on center Flory Bidunga, who is averaging 14.6 points, 7.4 rebounds and 2.9 blocks. He recorded a triple-double with 18 points, nine rebounds and five blocks against Notre Dame on Nov. 24. The matchup between Mitchell and Bidunga will be critical. Mitchell’s versatile scoring from the wing will challenge Kansas’s perimeter defense, while Bidunga’s interior presence will test a Missouri frontcourt that has faced less formidable big men. Historically, Kansas holds a significant advantage in the series and at Allen Fieldhouse, where the Jayhawks are 3-0 against Missouri since the rivalry resumed in 2021. For the Tigers, a win would solidify their top-10 status and mark a statement road victory. For the Jayhawks, it represents an opportunity to secure a resume-building win before Big 12 play. “This is why you come to Mizzou or Kansas,” Missouri coach Dennis Gates said earlier this week. “You want to play in these environments in these games. Our group will be prepared.” Kansas coach Bill Self emphasized the need for consistency. “We’ve shown flashes against great teams,” Self said. “Now we have to put it together for 40 minutes against another very good one.” Tip-off is set for 4 p.m. CST Sunday. The game will be broadcast on ESPN.