Missouri men’s basketball is bracing for some big changes at wing and forward this offseason. Starting forward Trent Pierce is coming back, but the Tigers will lose leading scorer Mark Mitchell, key rotation player Jacob Crews, and maybe even depth forward Jevon Porter, depending on his medical redshirt outcome.
Backup wing Annor Boateng is also expected to miss part of the offseason with a tough leg injury. Head coach Dennis Gates and his staff will probably hit the transfer portal hard, looking for experienced contributors to fill these gaps.
Let’s take a look at eight players Missouri might target.
1. Taylor from UNC Asheville
Taylor really broke out in his sophomore season at UNC Asheville, putting up 18.9 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists per game. He shot 45.3% from the field and led the Bulldogs in scoring.
At 6-foot-7 and 185 pounds, Taylor now enters the transfer portal with two years of eligibility left. He’s got big NBA dreams and plenty of experience taking on a heavy workload.
He probably wouldn’t be Missouri’s top option, but he’d fit nicely alongside Jason Crowe in the 2026-27 season.
Why Taylor Fits Missouri’s Needs
Missouri needs a wing who can score and make plays, and Taylor checks both boxes. He’s shown he can handle different roles and brings some leadership to the table.
2. Haralson from Notre Dame
Haralson impressed as a freshman at Notre Dame, averaging 16.2 points, 4 rebounds, and 2.6 assists while shooting 51.5% from the floor. He struggled from deep and at the line, but he finishes strong at the rim and has good vision.
Missouri offered him back in high school, so there’s already some history there.
Haralson’s Potential Impact
Haralson’s athleticism could really shake up Missouri’s offense. If he keeps working on his shot, he could be a difference-maker.
3. Vaaks from Providence
Vaaks leaves Providence after averaging 15.8 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 3.2 assists. He shot 40.3% from the field, 35% from three, and 83.9% at the line.
At 6-foot-7 and 206 pounds, he’s basically a guard in a wing’s body. With better shot selection, his three-point shooting could get even better.
If Missouri lands him, Vaaks would instantly become one of their best players.
Vaaks’ Versatility and Shooting
Vaaks brings size, guard skills, and shooting—pretty much everything Missouri needs on the wing. His connection to former Tiger Kim English is a fun twist in his recruitment story.
4. Jamier Jones from Providence
Jamier Jones, a 6-foot-6, 218-pound freshman, averaged 11.9 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.4 assists last season. He showed his potential against top teams like UConn.
Missouri’s recruited him before, so there’s a chance to circle back.
Jones’ Athleticism and Upside
Jones has the athleticism and confidence to step up in big moments. He could become a solid, dynamic wing for Missouri.
5. Cotton from UT Rio Grande Valley
Cotton kept improving through college, finishing with a breakout year at UT Rio Grande Valley. He posted 13.9 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.2 blocks per game.
Cotton’s reliable shooting and all-around game would be a big boost for Missouri’s rotation.
Cotton’s All-Around Game
He defends, rebounds, and scores—Missouri could use a wing who does a little of everything. Cotton’s versatility makes him a strong candidate.
6. Benjamin from Fairfield
Benjamin, a 6-foot-8, 235-pound forward, averaged 14.2 points and 10.4 rebounds as a freshman at Fairfield. Missouri struggled to rebound last year, so his presence could help a lot.
He also played high school ball with Missouri guard T.O. Barrett, which doesn’t hurt.
Benjamin’s Rebounding and Interior Presence
Benjamin controls the boards and brings energy inside. That’s exactly what Missouri needs up front.
7. Byers from Miami (OH)
Byers has been a steady three-point shooter, averaging 14.2 points and hitting 39.2% from deep last season. Missouri’s shooting woes last year make his skillset even more valuable.
Byers’ Shooting and Spacing
Byers can space the floor and cut off the ball, which would open up Missouri’s offense. Pairing him with freshman Aidan Chronister could give Missouri a real shooting punch.
8. Shaw from St. Mary’s
Shaw, a 6-foot-7 wing, averaged 7.5 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.5 assists while shooting 41.6% from three. He’s young, can defend, and already has postseason experience with St. Mary’s.
Shaw’s Shooting and Defensive Potential
Shaw can knock down shots from beyond the arc, which adds a much-needed layer to Missouri’s offense. He also brings defensive energy, making him a pretty versatile option for the Tigers.
Honestly, Shaw seems like the kind of player who could grow into a reliable wing. That fits right in with the Tigers’ long-term plans.
He’s played in high-pressure situations before, so Missouri’s young squad could really use those intangibles.
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