Our early non-conference opponent preview series for Memphis basketball continues as we focus on the Ohio Bobcats. The Tigers will face off against the Bobcats on November 15 at FedEx Forum, marking the third matchup on their 2024-2025 non-conference slate. With Ohio looking to build on recent successes and Memphis aiming to defend home court, this contest presents another important challenge early in the season for Penny Hardaway’s squad. Today’s analysis dives into what Ohio brings and how this matchup could play out.
Ohio Bobcats 2023-2024 Season Recap
The Ohio Bobcats enter the 2024-2025 season with high hopes of returning to the NCAA tournament for the first time since 2021. Last season, the Bobcats finished with a strong 20-13 overall record, including a 13-5 mark in the Mid-American Conference (MAC), which placed them third in the conference standings. Ohio closed the season on a hot streak, winning eight of their final ten games before heading into the MAC tournament. However, despite their solid performance, the Bobcats could not secure an NCAA tournament berth.
For teams in one-bid leagues like the MAC, securing a spot in the NCAA tournament requires either winning the conference tournament outright or compiling an impressive regular-season and non-conference resume. Unfortunately for Ohio, they fell short in the MAC tournament and missed an at-large bid, leaving them hungry for another shot at postseason success.
The last time Ohio made a splash in the NCAA tournament was during the 2021-2022 season when they knocked off the fourth-seeded Virginia Cavaliers in the first round before falling to Creighton in the second round. For the Bobcats, getting back to that level remains the goal.
This upcoming matchup against Memphis gives Ohio an excellent opportunity to build their resume. A win against a strong program like Memphis could significantly boost Ohio’s NCAA tournament chances, especially if Memphis has a successful season. On the other hand, if Memphis defeats Ohio and the Bobcats go on to become one of the top teams in the MAC, the victory could reflect well on Memphis’ tournament hopes. Both teams have plenty to gain from this early-season showdown, making it a critical game for both programs as they look to make an impression on the selection committee.
Current Roster Configuration
The Ohio Bobcats head into the 2024-2025 season with a roster filled with experienced personnel. However, they face the challenge of replacing key production in scoring and backcourt leadership due to the graduation of standout players Jaylin Hunter and Miles Brown. The Bobcats will look to Shereef Mitchell, Ajay Sheldon, and Elmore James to carry the offensive load this season to fill this void. At the same time, the program doesn’t have the same resources as Memphis, particularly regarding NIL opportunities; head coach Jeff Boals has made the most out of the talent he’s discovered through the transfer portal and the high school recruiting circuit.
Ohio added two key players from the transfer portal this offseason, Victor Searls and Jackson Paveletzke. Searls, a 6’9″, 245-pound senior, comes to Ohio after an impressive season at Ashland University, averaging 15.4 points and 7.5 rebounds per game. Known for his efficiency, Searls shot a remarkable 68.8% from the field, making him a reliable presence in the frontcourt. The transition from Division II to Division I is never easy. Still, with his size and experience, Searls provides Ohio with lineup flexibility and solid depth behind returning big man AJ Clayton. Clayton’s offensive versatility may allow the two to share the court, adding more dimension to Ohio’s frontcourt.
The other addition, Jackson Paveletzke, brings backcourt depth to the team. The 6’2″ guard is a junior transfer from Iowa State, where he averaged 3.4 points per game in 10.5 minutes across 33 games last season. Before his stint at Iowa State, Paveletzke made a name for himself at Wofford, where he was named Southern Conference Freshman of the Year, averaging 15.1 points and 3.7 assists per game. His shooting percentages were impressive, including 49.4% from the field, 39.3% from three, and 84.2% from the free throw line. Paveletzke’s scoring ability and court vision make him an important asset for the Bobcats as they rebuild their backcourt.
With a mix of experienced returnees and new additions, the Bobcats have the pieces in place to be competitive in the MAC this season. Coach Boals has crafted a roster that maximizes the talent available. Ohio can potentially make another run at postseason play if these transfers adjust quickly to Division I competition.
Closing Statement
This early-season matchup against Memphis will be crucial for both teams as they look to bolster their NCAA tournament resumes. With its highly experienced roster, Ohio will seek to make a statement on the road, while Memphis will aim to defend its home court and continue building momentum. With both programs aspiring for postseason success, this game has the potential to serve as a key victory that could impress the selection committee down the line. Expect a hard-fought contest as these two teams face off at FedEx Forum on November 15.
Subscribe on YouTube
Don’t miss out on the latest and greatest content surrounding the Memphis Tigers! Stay connected and up to date by liking, commenting, and subscribing to our YouTube channel, Memphis Wire. Doing so ensures you never miss a beat regarding news, highlights, analysis, and interviews related to your favorite teams. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply love following the action, our channel is your go-to destination for all things Memphis Tigers. So, hit that like button, leave a comment to join the conversation, and subscribe to Memphis Wire to ensure you’re always in the loop!
Sports Betting
Are you going to place a bet on the latest Memphis Tigers game or any sporting events happening throughout the week? If so, then you need to check out BetUs. BetUs is the ultimate destination for online betting, sports betting, live betting, racebooks, etc. If you are interested, click on the text link BetUs, and you will be redirected to their website. We shall receive compensation if you decide to sign up through our affiliate link below.
BetUs On Sports View 360
