COLUMBIA, Mo. - Summer workouts are well underway for the Mizzou Men's Basketball team. The Tigers have regrouped with several fresh faces for the 2015-16 campaign. Get to know each of the new student-athletes on next season's squad with a series of features on MUTigers.com.

First up is Blue Springs, Mo., native Kevin Puryear. The incoming freshman averaged 20.1 points and 7.8 rebounds per game and shot 53.4 percent from the floor as a senior, fueling Blue Springs South High School to its first Missouri Class 5 State Championship in program history. That title came under the bright lights of his new home - Mizzou Arena.

Puryear, a 6-foot-7 forward, chose Mizzou over offers from Arkansas, Ole Miss, Nebraska, Oklahoma State and Creighton. Puryear was a 2015 Missouri High School Class 5 All-State selection. He was also named the Kansas City Star's All-Metro Player of the Year following his outstanding senior season.


Q & A with Kevin Puryear:

Q: What about Mizzou made it a big draw to you?

KP: "I've always been a fan of the program and the coaching staff. The coaches have meant a lot to me. The same way they treated me on my visits is the same way they treat me now. I think what I enjoy most is the integrity they have."

Q: What's it like to get a chance to play college basketball in your home state?

KP: "It's awesome. I've wanted to be at this school for so long, so to actually be here is a dream come true, honestly."

Q: What about Coach Anderson's system stands out so far?

KP: "I like that we get after it every single day, but we still have some fun while we're doing it. That makes the process more enjoyable."

Q: What's been the best part about Mizzou so far since you arrived for summer workouts?

KP: "The bond I have with my teammates is great. Just laughing, hanging in the locker room and having a good time."

Q: Describe your game to fans who have never seen you play.

KP: "Physical, gritty and versatile."

Q: What else will you bring to the table next season?

KP: "Just a winning attitude. I'll do whatever they need me to do to win because I feel like I'm capable of doing it all."

Q: What's the best memory you have on the court so far?

KP: "Winning the state championship at Mizzou Arena was the coolest thing because I'm currently here now so to play on this floor, on my future court, was just awesome.

Q: What are you working on this summer to get ready for your freshman season?

KP: "Just enhancing my skills, specifically shooting and ball handling while getting stronger in the weight room. I want to be SEC-ready by the time November comes."