Tigers Host Lions in Nonconference Finale COLUMBIA, Mo. (Interstat) — The Missouri Tigers look to carry momentum into the holiday break when they host the North Alabama Lions in a nonconference women’s basketball game Sunday at Mizzou Arena. Missouri (10-3) enters the contest having won six of its last seven, including an 82-66 road victory at Saint Louis on Dec. 14. The Tigers have been led by a balanced attack, with sophomore guard Shannon Dowell averaging 14.8 points, 5.5 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game. Dowell is coming off a 16-point, six-rebound, five-assist performance against the Billikens. North Alabama (5-5) seeks to snap a two-game skid after falling 72-57 at Alabama A&M on Wednesday. The Lions have relied heavily on guard Sofia Ceppellotti, who scored 15 points in that loss and is averaging 11.6 points per game. She logged 42 minutes and scored 19 points in a narrow win at Samford on Dec. 7. This matchup presents a stark contrast in schedules. Missouri, preparing for Southeastern Conference play, has faced a series of high-major opponents. North Alabama, a member of the ASUN Conference, has played a more regional slate. The Tigers’ size and depth will challenge a Lions squad that has struggled offensively in recent road losses. For Missouri, this game serves as a final tune-up before opening SEC play at home against Texas on Jan. 1. North Alabama begins its ASUN schedule on the road at Florida Gulf Coast on the same date. Sunday’s tipoff is set for 1 p.m. Central at Mizzou Arena.