When one 7-footer departs, another steps in just as quickly. That’s exactly what transpired when head coach Dennis Gates secured veteran big man Shawn Phillips Jr. from the transfer portal. The addition came on the same day that freshman Peyton Marshall announced his exit from Columbia, though it’s uncertain whether the two events are related. Regardless, Missouri’s frontcourt has a new centerpiece — and one with considerably more experience, especially within the SEC.
Phillips brings three seasons of NCAA experience, having started his college career at LSU before spending two years with Arizona State. During his freshman year at LSU in 2022-23, Phillips saw limited action and didn’t start, which led him to transfer to Arizona State. It was with the Sun Devils that he began to find his footing in the college game.
In his sophomore campaign — his first with Arizona State — he played in 24 games and started in half. Though he didn’t take many shots, he was efficient, hitting 55% from the floor.Phillips carved out a valuable role on both ends, averaging 5.5 points, three rebounds, and over a block per game.
He took another step forward as a junior, increasing his production across the board. He posted nearly six points per game on 57% shooting, grabbed over five rebounds per game, and continued to average a block per contest.
That increased playing time, however, also came with more turnovers and fouls — nearly two and three per game, respectively — which could become issues if not managed better.
As a more traditional center, Phillips holds down the paint, plays solid interior defense, and picks his spots offensively.
If used effectively, he could be a capable replacement not only for Marshall, but also for former starting center Josh Gray, who hit the transfer portal despite having used up his eligibility.
