The Memphis basketball team’s highly anticipated game against FAU at FedExForum did not disappoint. The Tigers had a chance for redemption against the team that knocked them out of the NCAA Tournament the previous year, and they seized the opportunity, ultimately defeating FAU by a score of 78-74.
One of the standout players for Memphis was Nae’Qwan Tomlin, who provided stability and leadership throughout the game. Despite the team’s overall lack of efficiency in the first half, Tomlin stepped up with 11 points, including a crucial 3-pointer. He also contributed four rebounds, three steals, and two blocks, finishing with an impressive stat line of 21 points, eight rebounds, three steals, and two blocks.
Another key factor in Memphis’ victory was their defense against the 3-point line. FAU struggled to find their rhythm from beyond the arc, shooting just 25% on 3-point attempts. This strong defensive performance limited FAU’s scoring opportunities and played a significant role in Memphis’ win.
Turnovers have often been a weakness for the Tigers, but in this game, they managed to minimize their mistakes. Memphis committed just six turnovers while forcing 13 turnovers from FAU. This low turnover rate allowed the Tigers to maintain control of the game and capitalize on their opponent’s mistakes.
Notably absent from the game was Malcolm Dandridge, the Tigers’ skilled fifth-year senior center. With Dandridge unavailable due to an ongoing athletic department investigation, Memphis had to rely on other players to contain FAU’s 7-footer, Vladislav Goldin. Despite their efforts, Goldin still managed to score 22 points, highlighting the impact of Dandridge’s absence.
Johnell Davis, one of the top players in the AAC, struggled to find his rhythm against Memphis’ defense. Held to just three points in the first half, Davis only came alive in the later stages of the game. As the Tigers tried to extend their lead, Davis made key shots to keep the Owls in contention, finishing the game with 20 points.
Looking ahead, these observations from the game against FAU indicate potential trends and implications for the Memphis basketball team. The strong defensive performance against the 3-point line demonstrates the importance of perimeter defense in modern basketball. Teams that can effectively limit their opponents’ 3-point shooting percentage are more likely to succeed.
Additionally, the ability to minimize turnovers is crucial for teams aiming to control games and secure victories. Memphis’ improved ball security in this game could signal a positive trend for the team moving forward.
However, the absence of Malcolm Dandridge highlights the importance of depth and versatility in a team’s roster. Injuries, eligibility issues, or other unforeseen circumstances can impact a team’s key players, and having reliable alternatives is essential for maintaining competitiveness.
As for individual players like Nae’Qwan Tomlin and Johnell Davis, their performances in this game could serve as a catalyst for future success. Tomlin’s leadership and scoring ability make him a valuable asset for Memphis, while Davis’ ability to adapt and contribute late in games showcases his resilience and determination.
In conclusion, the Memphis Tigers’ victory over FAU provided several insights into the team’s strengths and areas for improvement. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how these trends develop and how the team adjusts in response. With strong defensive performances and improved ball security, the Tigers have shown potential for future success. However, the absence of key players like Malcolm Dandridge underscores the significance of roster depth. Only time will tell how these factors will impact the team’s overall performance.