By Andrew Melroe, Mizzou Strategic Communications

COLUMBIA, Mo. - Coming off the largest two-game point differential since 2009, Mizzou Men's Basketball opens Southeastern Conference play with a road contest at Georgia on Wednesday. Freshman forward Kevin Puryear (Blue Springs, Mo.) has been a consistent producer for the Tigers 13 games into his first collegiate campaign. Puryear leads the team in scoring, averaging 11.8 points per game on 50.5 percent field goal shooting. The Show-Me State native became one of four freshman in Tiger history to score 20 or more points in his debut, scoring 20 points in an 83-74 win over Wofford on Nov. 13.

Puryear grabbed eight rebounds, had two steals and a block in Mizzou's 78-25 rout on Dec. 29 against Arkansas Pine-Bluff, the lowest point total the Tigers have allowed since 1947. Combined with an 81-50 win over Savannah State on Jan. 2, Puryear emphasized the importance of continuing to improve after two quality wins.

"We have a lot of momentum building from the last couple games," said Puryear. "I think it's really important for us to have that confidence going into Georgia."

The effort on the defensive end is something Mizzou has focused on in practice throughout the season, visible by allowing 50 points or less the last two times out. Focus on defense continued during preparation for the Bulldogs, who have three starters who averaging double-digit scoring.

"On the defensive end, we've been working on activity, communication, protecting the paint," said Puryear. "Every day, we are finding ways to get better for each game."

Puryear knows the grind of the SEC schedule will be tough in the months to come, but the chance to play in some of college basketball's best arenas is something he is excited to experience.

"I'm looking forward to the environments of the places we get to play in," Puryear explained. "The competition is good in the SEC. Everyone wants to win. We know as a team, we have to come out and play our best game every conference game."

Last season, Puryear witnessed the Tigers defeat Auburn at Mizzou Arena, 63-61 on March 3, 2015. He knows that game will be fresh in the memories of Auburn when it visits Columbia again on Saturday, Jan. 9.

"I'm looking forward to the Auburn game," Puryear said. "We split with them last year. After we got a win over them near the end of last year, I know they will come into our place wanting to beat us. It has the feel of a small rivalry."

Tipoff for Wednesday's contest with Georgia is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. CT and will be broadcasted on the SEC Network. The Tigers host Auburn in their SEC home opener Saturday, Jan. 9 at 8 p.m. CT, televised on ESPN2.