Prior to the Iowa State game, I characterized basketball strategy as an evaluation of trade offs. Tonight Rick Barnes made the exact same decision that I would have, deciding to play under the screens on Phil Pressey -- who is dangerous in a lot of different ways, but is a mediocre shooter. It was a strategically sound decision, but tonight the 31% shooter from beyond the arc couldn't miss.

Sometimes you just tip your cap, and tonight's one of those nights. Texas didn't play poorly tonight; Missouri just played really, really well. They're a very experienced, skilled team of players, and they just flat out beat us with better play. Congrats to them on a great game, and really great season.

It's too bad we won't get to return the favor next year. Hopefully the SEC is kinder to Missouri than the Big 12 has been.

Now we wait for Sunday. Hook 'em