For Penny Hardaway and the No. 14 Memphis Tigers, Thursday night’s rematch against South Florida wasn’t just another game—it was about setting the record straight. Since last season’s collapse, where Memphis squandered a 20-point lead to the Bulls at FedEx Forum, this date had been circled on the calendar. That loss marked the turning point of Memphis’ 2023-24 season downfall, dashing NCAA Tournament hopes and fueling doubts about Hardaway’s tenure.
Fast forward to 2025, and Memphis ensured history wouldn’t repeat itself. The Tigers dominated from start to finish, securing an 80-65 road victory over the Bulls in Tampa, Florida, extending their winning streak to eight games while further solidifying their position at the top of the American Athletic Conference standings.
Memphis Leaves No Doubt This Time
Unlike last season’s matchup, there were no signs of a second-half meltdown from the Tigers. Despite some early sloppiness from both teams, Memphis gained control before halftime and never let go.
The Tigers took a commanding 40-27 lead into the break, thanks to a 12-0 scoring run late in the first half. After a three-pointer by Jimmie Williams, South Florida had briefly cut the deficit to six points (30-24), but a thunderous Moussa Cissé dunk shifted the momentum. Memphis dominated second-chance opportunities, outscoring the Bulls 16-4 in that category.
The Tigers built their lead to as much as 24 points in the second half. Though South Florida made a push to trim the margin to 13 late in the game, Memphis never allowed the Bulls to get any closer. Unlike last year, when the Tigers unraveled down the stretch, they had an answer for every USF attempt to make things interesting.
Dain Dainja Leads the Way as Memphis Controls the Paint
Memphis’ dominance inside proved to be the deciding factor, and once again, Dain Dainja played a starring role. The junior big man continued his impressive stretch, leading all Memphis scorers with 20 points on an efficient 9-of-13 shooting.
Dainja wasn’t alone in delivering a strong performance—PJ Haggerty and Colby Rogers combined for 28 points, while Tyrese Hunter’s return from injury provided another boost.
Tyrese Hunter’s Return Bolsters Backcourt
Hours before tipoff, reports surfaced that Tyrese Hunter would be available for the matchup after missing Sunday’s game against Temple due to a knee injury. His return proved crucial, as he finished with 15 points, six rebounds, and two assists in his first game back.
Hunter’s presence not only added depth to Memphis’ backcourt but also allowed Dante Harris—who had stepped up in his absence—to return to his key role off the bench.
Moussa Cissé Provides a Spark Off the Bench
While Memphis’ starters controlled much of the game, Moussa Cissé made his presence felt in a significant way off the bench. The 7-footer provided an interior defensive spark and rebounding edge, finishing with nine points, seven rebounds, two steals, and 20 minutes of solid play.
His energy was a difference-maker, particularly in the first-half momentum swing that allowed Memphis to take full control of the game.
Turnovers a Lingering Concern
While Memphis took care of business, turnover remains an issue that could haunt them in bigger matchups. The Tigers committed 15 turnovers against South Florida, which Hardaway would like to see reduced as they push toward an AAC title.
Despite the giveaways, Memphis’ defensive intensity and rebounding dominance helped offset the sloppy play. The Tigers continued their trend of suffocating opponents on the glass, limiting South Florida’s offensive rebounding opportunities and keeping the Bulls at bay in key moments.
What Lies Ahead
Memphis now shifts focus to Wichita State, where they will face the Shockers on Sunday in a rematch from January 25. The Tigers won the first meeting 61-53, but as conference play intensifies, Hardaway’s squad must remain locked in to avoid setbacks.
With six regular-season games remaining, the Tigers are inching closer to their first AAC regular-season championship under Hardaway. Thursday night’s victory over South Florida was more than just another conference win—it was a statement that this Memphis team is built differently than last year.
And if they keep playing at this level, they won’t just be conference champions—they’ll be a dangerous team come March.
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