Memphis Tigers Defeat No. 16 Ole Miss 87-70

News Summary

The Memphis Tigers men’s basketball team triumphed over the No. 16 Ole Miss Rebels with a dominating performance, winning 87-70 at FedExForum. This victory improved Memphis’s record to 10-3 and showcased strong performances from players like Colby Rogers and Moussa Cisse. Following a recent loss to Mississippi State, the Tigers bounced back, outscoring the Rebels in the second half. Head coach Penny Hardaway’s strategies paid off, and the team is now looking ahead to their upcoming AAC competition.

Memphis Tigers Take Down No. 16 Ole Miss in Dominating Fashion

Memphis, known for its vibrant culture and exciting sports scene, witnessed an electrifying performance from the Memphis Tigers men’s basketball team. The Tigers delivered a statement win against the No. 16 Ole Miss Rebels, coming out on top with a score of 87-70 at FedExForum. This victory significantly boosted Memphis’s confidence, pushing their season record to 10-3, while Ole Miss stumbled to 11-2.

A Resounding Comeback

Just days before this impressive win, the Tigers faced a disheartening loss to the Mississippi State Bulldogs, where they fell short with a score of 79-66. This previous setback seemed to fuel the fire for Memphis, as they took control of the game right from the start on their home turf. The Tigers dominated the game throughout, showcasing their strength by outscoring the Rebels 49-34 in the second half.

Standout Performances

All eyes were on Colby Rogers during the match, who turned in an astounding performance, racking up 28 points and nailing an impressive 6-for-9 from beyond the arc. Rogers’s performance echoed the reminder that every player has their ups and downs, mirroring how even elite athletes like NBA star Steph Curry have battled through challenging shooting slumps.

Another key player in the Tigers’ triumph was Moussa Cisse, who contributed greatly with a double-double, finishing the game with 13 points and 11 rebounds. Cisse’s motivation was palpable as he sought to prove himself, especially after receiving criticism for being “soft” following the earlier defeat.

Coaching and Strategy

Memphis head coach Penny Hardaway emphasized the importance of this game, labeling it a “must win”, especially given the team’s grueling non-conference schedule. Hardaway’s strategic gameplay paid off, establishing a rhythm that kept Ole Miss off-balance throughout the match.

On the other side, Ole Miss head coach Chris Beard acknowledged that while the loss was disappointing, it shouldn’t be viewed as a wake-up call; the players were already aware of the competitive nature of the match. Despite their preparations, the Rebels were unable to match the intensity and energy brought by the Tigers.

Looking Ahead

As Memphis shines in this impressive victory, they will be gearing up for the next phase of their season. The Tigers will hit the road to kick off their American Athletic Conference (AAC) play against FAU this coming Thursday. Fans are eager to see how the team will carry their momentum into conference play.

Meanwhile, Ole Miss will have a moment to regroup, enjoying a week off before they host Georgia for their SEC opener on Saturday. This break will be crucial for the Rebels to reassess their performance and bounce back stronger.

Conclusion

The basketball scene in Memphis is thriving, and this latest victory over Ole Miss solidifies the Tigers’ place as a formidable opponent in college basketball. As they prepare for AAC competition, fans are left buzzing with excitement and anticipation for what’s next. With players like Rogers and Cisse leading the charge, the Tigers are primed for a thrilling season ahead!