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The No. 17 Memphis Tigers (19-4, 9-1 AAC) have been one of the hottest teams in the American Athletic Conference, riding a six-game winning streak as they prepare for a highly anticipated rematch against Temple. This upcoming matchup is about more than just securing another conference victory—it’s about redemption.
Earlier this season, the Tigers suffered an 88-81 road loss to the Owls, their only conference defeat. That game exposed weaknesses Memphis must address if they want to maintain their hold on first place in the AAC and solidify their NCAA Tournament resume. Now, Penny Hardaway’s squad will have the chance to even the score as they welcome Temple to FedEx Forum.
Let’s look at what went wrong in the first meeting, the adjustments Memphis must make, and the key matchups that could determine the outcome of this highly anticipated showdown.
Related: Memphis’ Defensive Takes Center Stage
What Went Wrong in the First Meeting?
Memphis’ loss to Temple on January 16 was frustrating, as the Tigers failed to capitalize on opportunities and allowed the Owls to dictate the tempo late in the game. Here are the biggest issues from that matchup:
Turnover Struggles
The Tigers were careless with the basketball, committing 16 turnovers—many unforced errors that led to transition buckets for Temple. These mistakes allowed the Owls to stay in the game despite Memphis controlling large stretches of the first half.
Poor Free Throw Shooting
One of the most pivotal moments in the first meeting was when PJ Haggerty missed two crucial free throws with under two minutes remaining, preventing Memphis from cutting the lead to two points. The Tigers shot just 68% from the line in that game, which proved costly in a tightly contested matchup.
Defensive Lapses in the Second Half
Memphis held the lead at various points, but their defense faltered late, allowing Temple to get easy looks at the basket. The Tigers struggled to contain the Owls’ perimeter shooting, and they delivered when Temple needed key buckets.
Lack of Clutch Execution
Unlike their recent wins over Wichita State, Tulane, and Rice, where Memphis found ways to close out games down the stretch, they failed to execute in crunch time against Temple. The Tigers had several chances to shift momentum but missed critical shots and defensive assignments, allowing the Owls to control the final minutes.
Adjustments Memphis Needs to Make
For Memphis to flip the script and protect home court, several adjustments must be made from their previous meeting with Temple:
Limit Turnovers and Play Smarter Offensively
The Tigers have improved in this area in recent games, recording just eight turnovers against Tulsa—a season-low. They must maintain that discipline against Temple, as careless mistakes could allow the Owls to gain confidence on the road.
Attack the Paint and Draw Fouls
Temple lacks the interior presence to match Memphis’ frontcourt duo of Dain Dainja and Moussa Cissé. Dainja has been a force in the paint, averaging nearly 20 points per game over the past few contests. The Tigers should prioritize getting him touches early and often, forcing the Owls into foul trouble.
Improve Perimeter Defense
Temple shot 44.4% from three-point range in the first meeting, taking advantage of open looks created by poor defensive rotations. Memphis must be sharper on closeouts and communicate better to prevent wide-open shots from beyond the arc.
Execute in the Final Five Minutes
If this game is close, Memphis must prove they’ve learned from their previous loss by executing in key moments. That means making free throws, taking high-percentage shots, and getting defensive stops when needed.
Key Matchups to Watch
- PJ Haggerty vs. Temple’s Perimeter Defense
Haggerty has been Memphis’ best player this season, but he had an off night in the first matchup with Temple, scoring just 21 points on inefficient shooting. Expect him to play with extra motivation, especially given his ability to take over games in crunch time.
- Dain Dainja vs. Temple’s Interior Defense
Temple does not have a player who can match Dainja’s size, footwork, and scoring ability in the post. If Memphis commits to feeding him early, he could dominate inside and force the Owls to adjust their defensive scheme.
- Rowan Brumbaugh vs. Tyrese Hunter
Brumbaugh is one of Temple’s most dangerous playmakers, averaging 14.5 points per game and ranking second in the AAC in assists. Hunter, Memphis’ defensive specialist, will likely be tasked with containing him and preventing easy scoring opportunities.
- The Battle of the Three-Point Line
Memphis is currently first in the nation in three-point shooting percentage and shot 43% from beyond the arc in their last game. They’ll have a significant edge in this contest if they can maintain that efficiency while limiting Temple’s outside shooting.
Prediction: Memphis Secures Redemption at Home
Memphis is playing much better than they were during the first meeting with Temple, particularly in defense and their ability to close out games. The Tigers have adjusted their rotation, with Dain Dainja thriving as a starter and PJ Carter providing a scoring boost off the bench.
Temple will not go down without a fight, but Memphis’ home-court advantage, improved defense, and dominance inside should be enough to get the job done.
Final Score Prediction: Memphis 78, Temple 67
A victory over Temple would not only avenge their lone conference loss but also solidify Memphis’ hold on first place in the AAC as they continue their pursuit of a regular-season conference title. Expect Penny Hardaway’s squad to be locked in and ready to make a statement.
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