Missouri’s men’s basketball team will open the 2026-27 season without projected starter Jaylen Carey, who was suspended for a violation of team rules, and DePaul transfer CJ Gunn, who was ruled ineligible by the Southeastern Conference after signing a professional contract in May. The Tigers’ coach, Dennis Gates, announced Carey’s suspension on the day before their opener against Cleveland State, while Gunn’s ineligibility followed his participation in the Canadian Elite Basketball League over the summer.
Missouri’s roster adjustments come as the team faces uncertainty over other player eligibility issues. Mark Mitchell, an All-SEC forward, remains eligible after a Kentucky Court of Appeals denied the NCAA emergency relief that would have suspended him under the “five-for-five” eligibility model. However, 30 players involved in similar cases, including Mitchell, could lose eligibility if future court decisions rule against them. Gates has not yet decided whether to start Mitchell, citing the risk of “interruption and growth” for younger players like freshman Toni Bryant.
Carey’s Suspension and Gunn’s Ineligibility
Carey, a 6-foot-8 transfer from Tennessee who averaged 7.4 points and 6.0 rebounds last season, was suspended for a team rule violation, though Gates declined to elaborate. It remains unclear whether Carey will return for a high-profile game against Saint Louis on Friday. Gunn, a DePaul transfer, was ineligible due to his May 2026 professional contract, a decision that had been anticipated after his summer league play.
NEWS: Missouri center Jaylen Carey has been suspended for violating team rules, per Dennis Gates. Carey transferred in from Tennessee after averaging 7.4 PPG and 6.0 RPG. Brother of Vernon Carey. pic.twitter.com/6jghQNl8mh
Coach Gates’ Uncertainty Over Roster
Gates emphasized the challenges of planning a season with unresolved eligibility risks. “I have to still build the program while thinking of the risk,” he said, noting that Mitchell’s status could change “at any point in time.” The coach expressed concern about balancing team integrity with the development of younger players, particularly in light of the NCAA’s evolving eligibility rules. Missouri’s season-opening expectations remain high despite these setbacks, with the Tigers bringing in one of the nation’s top freshman classes and a notable transfer group.
Team’s High Expectations Despite Challenges
Missouri entered the season as the first team outside the AP Top 25 preseason poll. The roster includes five-star prospects Toni Bryant and Jason Crow Jr., along with transfers Bryson Tiller, Jamier Jones, and Kennard Davis Jr. However, the absence of Carey and Gunn, combined with potential eligibility issues for Mitchell, introduces uncertainty as the Tigers aim to compete in a competitive conference. Gates’ decisions on starting lineups and team strategy will hinge on ongoing legal and NCAA developments.
