BREAKING: Dennis Gates Becomes First Coach in Missouri Tigers Men’s Basketball History to Lead Team in All Five State Categories

BREAKING: Dennis Gates Becomes First Coach in Missouri Tigers Men’s Basketball History to Lead Team in All Five State Categories

Columbia, MO – Missouri Tigers head coach Dennis Gates has officially etched his name into the history books, becoming the first coach in program history to lead the team in all five major state categories: wins, winning percentage, conference victories, postseason appearances, and NCAA Tournament wins. It’s a milestone that cements Gates’ status as one of the most impactful and successful figures to ever lead the Tigers’ men’s basketball program.

Hired in March 2022, Gates has brought a new culture of energy, discipline, and consistent excellence to Columbia. In just three seasons, he has revitalized a program that had been struggling with inconsistency, transforming Mizzou into a perennial SEC contender and national tournament threat.

Under his leadership, the Tigers have:

• Posted the most wins over a three-year span in program history, surpassing previous marks set during the Norm Stewart era.
• Achieved the highest winning percentage for a head coach in Missouri history through his first three seasons.
• Recorded the most conference wins over a similar stretch, establishing dominance in SEC play with back-to-back top-three finishes.
• Earned three consecutive postseason appearances, including two NCAA Tournament berths and a memorable run to the Elite Eight in 2025.
• Secured the most NCAA Tournament wins by a Missouri coach in his first three years, with Gates going 5-2 in March Madness play thus far.

Gates, known for his calm demeanor and player-first mentality, credited the players, fans, and university leadership for helping create a winning culture.

“This isn’t about me, it’s about us,” Gates said during Monday’s press conference. “From our athletic department to our loyal fans in Mizzou Arena, and especially to our players—this accomplishment belongs to all of us. We’ve built something special, and we’re just getting started.”

Athletic Director Desireé Reed-Francois praised Gates for not only his coaching success but his commitment to academics, community involvement, and program integrity.

“Coach Gates has exceeded expectations in every way,” she said. “He’s not just winning games—he’s building leaders, shaping a culture, and representing the university with class.”

The Tigers’ historic 2024–25 season concluded with a 27-8 record and a deep NCAA Tournament run, led by standout guard Brady Cook and breakout freshman Trey Holloway. With key recruits already signed for next season and Gates firmly committed to the program, expectations are sky-high heading into 2025–26.

Fans and alumni have already begun rallying behind the idea of a long-term extension for Gates, and conversations have reportedly begun within the university administration.

With records falling and momentum building, Dennis Gates’ era at Missouri is rapidly becoming a golden age for the program. If the first three seasons are any indication, Tigers basketball is in the midst of something truly special—and history is still being written.