"He was giving me grief about how U.C.L.A. was going to beat us," Kareem Rush said.

Six Tigers scored in double figures, including their highly regarded guard tandem, Clarence Gilbert (20 points) and Kareem Rush (15).

The Bobcats were picking up Kareem Rush, and House was told he'd be sitting behind him.

Clarence Gilbert, a senior guard, led Missouri with 23 points, and Kareem Rush, a junior forward, added 20.

He is the brother of fellow professional basketball players JaRon Rush and Kareem Rush.

Re-signed G Kareem Rush.

"Of course, you're sad about losing and not moving on," Missouri's Kareem Rush said.

The Lakers, who will start Kareem Rush if Bryant is late, are also hoping Bryant's pattern of excellent play under these circumstances continues.

As Missouri's Kareem Rush drove the lane, Gilbert drifted to the baseline.

One of those times occurred with 10 minutes 42 seconds left in the game after the Tigers' Kareem Rush connected on a 3-pointer to draw Missouri to 63-62.