Memphis, Tenn. - Sunday Showdown: Memphis vs. UAB
Sunday morning in downtown Memphis promises anything but a slow start. With an 11 a.m. tip-off and national TV cameras capturing every moment, the stage is set for a high-stakes rematch between Memphis and UAB. The Tigers, who previously claimed a 90-80 victory in Birmingham thanks to Sincere Parker's explosive 40-point performance, are now focused on defending their home court.
The atmosphere inside FedExForum will have a nostalgic flair, but the urgency is very much in the present. Memphis finds itself in unfamiliar territory, sitting below .500 this late in February for the first time in over two decades.
The last instance was the 1999-00 season, when a strong finish turned things around. History might not guarantee outcomes, but it certainly offers hope that a season can pivot when urgency meets opportunity.
And opportunity is exactly what Sunday brings.
UAB arrives with confidence, known for their disciplined ball handling, giving opponents few extra chances. Memphis will need to defend with intent and execute efficiently in the half court. Dug McDaniel, averaging 12.6 points and 4.7 assists per game, is key in setting the tempo for the Tigers.
While Sincere Parker's previous outburst was pivotal, balance remains crucial. Aaron Bradshaw's impressive 57.7 percent shooting anchors the paint, complemented by Julius Thedford's versatile play on both ends of the court.
Rebounding might quietly tip the scales in this matchup. UAB is strong on the boards, limiting second-chance opportunities. For Memphis, securing defensive rebounds and matching UAB's physicality will be as vital as any scoring run.
Sunday's game will also pause for a moment of gratitude. At the under-four media timeout in the first half, Memphis will honor Dr.
Barry Phillips for his 39 years of dedicated service as the head team physician. His steadfast presence has been a cornerstone for generations of players, making this recognition a heartfelt moment for the program.
Game Details:
- Memphis Tigers (12-14, 7-6 American) vs. UAB Blazers (18-8, 10-3 American)
- Date & Time: Sunday, February 21, 2026 | 11 a.m.
- Venue: FedExForum, Memphis, Tenn.
- TV: ESPN2 (Pete Sousa, pxp; Chris Spatola, analyst)
- Radio: 98.9 THE ROAR OF MEMPHIS (Dave Woloshin, pxp; Ken Moody, analyst)
Fans, don’t miss the live postgame show at Alfred's On Beale, hosted by the Memphis Tiger Radio Network.
By the Numbers:
- 1st: Aaron Bradshaw leads the American Conference, shooting 57.7 percent from the field and 78.3 percent at the free-throw line.
- 5: Memphis boasts a five-game winning streak against UAB, their longest active streak against any conference opponent.
- 16: The Tigers rank 16th nationally in three-point defense, holding opponents to 29.7 percent from beyond the arc.
- 16.9: Sincere Parker is second in Division I for bench scoring over the last month, averaging 16.9 points per game.
- 18: Memphis has won 18 consecutive home games against UAB, with their last loss dating back to January 2, 1999.
- 22-2: Memphis holds a 22-2 record against UAB over the last 20 seasons, showcasing a dominant history.
Scouting the Blazers:
UAB is disciplined with the ball, ranking 32nd nationally with a 1.58 assist-to-turnover ratio. They excel in transition, leading the league with 15.6 fastbreak points per game. The Blazers are also strong on the boards, ranking 16th nationally with 40.9 rebounds per game.
Chance Westry leads UAB with 15.0 points, 4.9 assists, and 3.8 rebounds per game, supported by Jacob Meyer, Daniel Rivera, and Kyeron Lindsay-Martin, all contributing double figures.
Up Next:
Memphis gears up for a busy week, hosting Wichita State on Thursday before heading to East Carolina on Sunday. These games are among the final regular season contests for the Tigers.
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