Mizzou Men’s Basketball will open the 2017-18 season with Iowa State. The Tigers return to Ames, Iowa, in on Nov. 9, 2018.  Former league rivals dating back to the days of the Big Eight Conference, the Mizzou-Iowa State series (233 meetings all-time) dates back to 1909, when the Tigers claimed a rousing 53-14 victory in Columbia. Mizzou has posted a 149-84 all-time record against the Cyclones, the most wins over a single opponent ever for the Tigers.

“This is certainly an exciting series for Mizzou fans and alumni, considering the tradition and history between our two schools,” Mizzou Athletics Director Jim Sterk said. “It is unique to host a program like Iowa State’s to start a new season. All of us here with Mizzou Athletics look forward to seeing everyone at this big-time matchup in Mizzou Arena next year.”

Mizzou has only faced two programs more often than Iowa State (Kansas, 267; Kansas State, 235). The legendary Norm Stewart presided over 79 of those matchups, posting a stout 55-24 all-time record against the Cyclones, oftentimes getting the better of his Iowa State counterpart, Johnny Orr.

“This is really a special deal for Mizzou fans; this series coming up with Iowa State,” head coach Kim Anderson said. “A lot of memories probably immediately come to mind for fans of both programs. Our Mizzou program is excited to rekindle this series, but most of all, we’re excited for the challenge.”

More from Coach Anderson after Thursday’s press conference

Anderson battled well against the Cyclones during his playing days for Stewart, averaging 16.7 points per game while leading Mizzou to a 6-1 record against Iowa State from 1975-77. Anderson followed that by helping the Tigers to a 16-11 record vs. ISU during his days as a Mizzou assistant coach (1982-85, 1991-99).