Missouri lands commitment from 7-foot-3 transfer Connor Vanover

The Missouri Tigers landed themselves a more than notable hoops commitment over the weekend in the person of 7-foot-3 center Connor Vanover.

He's a big man and he's experienced, which are two traits that certainly play in college basketball. A Little Rock, Arkansas native, Vanover played for the Arkansas Razorbacks in 2020-21 and 2021-23, averaging 5.1 points and 3.3 rebounds in just 12.1 minutes per game. 

Playing time was obviously a concern and it undoubtedly played into his transfer to Oral Roberts last season, where he averaged 12.7 points and 7.2 in an extended role with 25.8 minutes per game.

Now heading to Missouri, he believes he can play a big role in an offense that scored 78.9 points per game last season and finished 23rd in the Final AP Poll.

“I chose Missouri because of fit and style of play. They have one of the top offenses in America and I am excited to be a part of what Coach [Dennis] Gates is building in Columbia," Vanover told On3. "I loved my visit meeting and spending time with staff. I feel my unique skill set can help complement many areas.”

Dennis Gates is heading into his second season at Missouri after a very successful three seasons at Cleveland State in the Horizon League. His Mizzou team was 25-10 last season and made it to the second round of the NCAA Tournament. 

Gates replaced Cuonzo Martin, who had failed to get Mizzou past the first round of the NCAA Tournament in two attempts in five seasons.