Missouri has added a key piece to its backcourt with the transfer of UCLA guard Sebastian Mack. A native of Chicago, Mack brings versatility as a combo guard and flashed potential during his two seasons in Westwood. Missouri was among the earliest programs to express interest, according to Tobias Bass of The Athletic.
He also drew attention from Texas, Tennessee and Texas A&M. Mack becomes the third portal pickup for Dennis Gates, joining Jevon Porter (Loyola Marymount) and Luke Northweather (Oklahoma). His ability to create and score could prove vital in Missouri’s push to rise in the SEC.
Dennis Gates Lands Potential Game-Changer in Sebastian Mack
Missouri continues to reload under Gates, and the addition of UCLA transfer Mack could be one of the most pivotal moves yet. The 6’3″ sophomore from Chicago arrives in Columbia with a proven scoring track record.
As a freshman in 2023–24, he posted 12.1 points per game and started 30 games for the Bruins. Though his role shifted in his second season, Mack still averaged 9.6 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.7 assists in 20.9 minutes across 34 appearances.
Mack had several standout performances, including 22 points against North Carolina, 19 versus Wisconsin, and 18 more in a rematch with the Badgers during the Big Ten Tournament.
Despite starting just one game in 2024–25, Mack contributed to a UCLA team that finished 23–11 and reached the NCAA Tournament’s second round after a win over Utah State.
Efficient around the rim and aggressive off the dribble, Mack shot 42% from the field as a sophomore. His ability to draw contact sets him apart—he ranked sixth in the Pac-12 in free-throw attempts as a freshman and still placed 20th in the Big Ten the following year.
Missouri rebounded from an 0–18 SEC record to earn a No. 6 seed in the 2025 NCAA Tournament, powered by an offense that ranked top 20 nationally in field-goal percentage and hit 37% from deep.
But an opening-round loss to Drake underscored the Tigers’ need for consistent shot creation, especially with the departure of key players like Caleb Grill (13.8 PPG).
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Mack’s high motor, downhill playstyle, and ability to score in bunches could be exactly what Missouri lacked.
Analysts like Jeff Goodman and Tobias Bass have praised his potential. Whether off the bench or in the starting five, Mack might just be the spark that elevates the Tigers to the next level.
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