Memphis dominates New Orleans, Wins 86-70
The Memphis Tigers improved to 3-4 after defeating the New Orleans Privateers 86-70 at home. Coach Penny Hardaway improved to the 5th most winning coach in Memphis Tiger’s history, tied with Dana Kirk.
The Tigers were led by Quante Berry and Julius Thedford who scored 17 and 13 points on the night. Alongside the duo, Dug McDaniel recorded a double-double with 11 points and 10 assists.
First Half
Julius Thedford scored the first 11 of 13 points, shooting 4-4 from the field and 3-3 from downtown. Quante Berry checked in at the 15-minute mark and quickly contributed a 5-0 run. The Tigers led 18-10 with 13 minutes to go.
Minutes later, Berry and Thedford combined for a 6-0 run that pushed the lead to 16. The Tiger’s 3-point shooting elevated the team to a 20-point lead after Simon Majok hit his first and only triple of the night.
With 3:38 to go, Zach Davis knocked down a three of his own to give the Tigers a 22-point lead. Memphis led 48-28 going into the locker rooms.
The Tigers shot 8-16 from the 3-point line in the first half and only turned the ball over 7 times.
Second Half
The Tigers picked up right where they left off. Dug McDaniel made an acrobatic double reverse to push the lead to 22.
The Tigers maintained their lead for the majority of the second half with help from Quante Berry and Simon Majok, who finished with 13 points.
However, the Privateers cut the lead to 13 with 4:58 to go. Memphis responded with five straight points from the foul line and then a Zach Davis jumper put them back up 80-60.
Notable Stats/Facts
The Tigers shot 33-67 (49.3%) from the field and 10-25 (40%) from beyond the arc. Memphis only committed 13 turnovers compared to 21 assists. The Tigers also won the rebounding battle 40 to 35. They forced 13 Privateer turnovers and scored 26 points as a result.
Both Aaron Bradshaw and Thierno Sylla did not play (coach decision)
What Went Right
The Memphis defense looked much better. Players communicated on switches and made the correct rotations. The effort level passed the eye test as well. It seemed like every time New Orleans passed the ball, the Tigers had their hands in the passing lanes, sometimes even their legs.
Coach Hardaway said, “You’re starting to see it. Guys are caring more and we’re starting to put the pressure on them to come out and do so.”
Dug McDaniel also had another encouraging performance. His passing ability was on full display tonight and if he can keep distributing the ball like that, it opens the door for more 40% shooting nights from three.
What’s Next
The Tigers will host the 6-1 Baylor Bears on Saturday. Memphis will look to get back to .500 on the season and protect home court from the Bears. Tip off is set for 3:30 p.m.
