The Memphis Tigers delivered an emphatic response to last week’s loss by securing an 87-70 victory over the 16th-ranked Ole Miss Rebels at FedExForum. The win avenged last year’s three-point loss in Oxford and solidified Memphis’ resume as one of the most impressive in college basketball heading into AAC play.
A Tale of Two Halves
Memphis set a strong tone from the opening tip, demonstrating their determination to rebound from recent setbacks. The first half was closely contested, with both teams trading baskets and defensive stops. Memphis took a slim 38-36 lead into halftime, contrasting their sluggish starts in previous losses.
The second half saw a different Memphis team. The Tigers came out firing on all cylinders, quickly gaining momentum and extending their lead. Unlike prior games, where they relied on second-half surges to close the gap, Memphis maintained control throughout, playing consistently on both ends of the floor.
Key Performances
Colby Rogers: Rogers led all scorers with 28 points, including a stellar 6-for-9 performance from beyond the arc. His shooting efficiency and clutch scoring were pivotal in keeping Memphis ahead.
PJ Haggerty: Continuing his strong season, Haggerty contributed 17 points, seven rebounds, and six assists. His all-around play provided stability for the Tigers throughout the game.
Moussa Cisse: Facing his former team, Cisse was a force in the paint with 13 points, 11 rebounds, and three blocks. His energy and defensive presence anchored Memphis on both ends of the floor.
Dain Dainja: Coming off the bench, Dainja added 16 points, three rebounds, and two blocks in 18 minutes, showcasing the depth Memphis possesses when their role players step up.
Defensive Adjustments and Rebounding Control
One of the game’s key takeaways was Memphis’ ability to limit Ole Miss’ second-chance opportunities. After struggling on the boards in losing to Mississippi State, the Tigers outrebounded Ole Miss 33-23. Their improved defensive effort also held Ole Miss to 36.4% shooting from the floor, including a mere 25.0% from three-point range.
A New Addition to the Rotation
Guard Dante Harris debuted for the Tigers, logging seven minutes and scoring a single point. While his impact in this game was minimal, his integration into the lineup adds another layer of depth for Memphis heading into conference play.
Momentum Heading into AAC Play
The victory over Ole Miss marked Memphis’ fifth Quad 1 win of the season, adding to an already impressive resume that includes triumphs over ranked opponents like UConn, Clemson, and Virginia. With a 10-3 record, the Tigers have established themselves as one of the most battle-tested teams in college basketball.
Head coach Penny Hardaway emphasized the importance of this win as the Tigers gear up for the rigors of AAC play.
“We’ve faced some of the best teams in the country this season, and these experiences have made us stronger. It’s about building consistency now as we head into conference competition,” Hardaway said after the game.
What Lies Ahead?
The Tigers enter AAC play on a high note, carrying momentum and lessons learned from a grueling non-conference schedule. Their first conference test comes against Florida Atlantic on January 2. With a resume featuring multiple Quad 1 and Quad 2 victories, Memphis has positioned itself as a strong contender for both the AAC title and a favorable seed come NCAA Tournament time.
Final Thoughts
The win over Ole Miss was a statement victory for Memphis, showcasing their ability to rise against quality opponents. Suppose the Tigers can replicate this level of play in the AAC. In that case, they’ll contend for the conference title and establish themselves as a legitimate threat in March Madness.
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