TAMPA, Fla. - Tough Night for Memphis as South Florida Dominates
In a game that started with promise but quickly turned, the Memphis Tigers fell to American Conference leader South Florida, 87-66, at the Yuengling Center. It was a tale of two halves for Memphis, who couldn't sustain their early momentum.
Key Players and Early Momentum
Julius Thedford led the Tigers with 13 points, while Aaron Bradshaw and Curtis Givens III each chipped in 12. Bradshaw was on fire early, going a perfect 4-for-4 from the field, including two from beyond the arc, and hitting both free throws. His hot start helped Memphis jump to a 21-16 lead within the first seven minutes.
The Drought and Turnaround
However, the Tigers hit a wall, missing their next 19 shots and enduring a 12-and-a-half-minute scoring drought. During this time, South Florida turned a five-point deficit into a commanding lead with decisive 8-0 and 13-0 runs, contributing to a 26-5 surge. By halftime, the Bulls were up 47-31, despite late efforts from Thedford to cut into the lead.
Memphis Struggles and Comeback Attempt
Bradshaw and Thedford combined for 21 of Memphis’ 31 first-half points, but the team struggled overall, shooting just 25% before the break. Dug McDaniel and Sincere Parker couldn't find their rhythm, going scoreless in the first half.
Facing a daunting 22-point deficit, the Tigers showed resilience. Parker's 8-point burst fueled a 14-4 run, with McDaniel and William Whorton contributing key plays to trim the lead to 12. But South Florida had the final say, closing with a 19-10 run to secure the win.
South Florida's Balanced Attack
The Bulls showcased their depth, with four players scoring in double figures. Wes Enis led with 20 points, supported by Joseph Pinion (19), Izaiyah Nelson (17), and CJ Brown (14). Nelson was a force on the boards, notching his 17th double-double with 14 rebounds and four blocks.
Memphis By the Numbers
Memphis shot 32.8% overall and hit 37.5% from three-point range, while converting 75% of their free throws. Turnovers were costly, with 13 giveaways leading to 13 points for South Florida. The Tigers' defense held the Bulls to 36.4% shooting but couldn't stop them from making 30 of 35 free throws.
Additional Highlights
- Memphis' starting lineup remained consistent for the fourth straight game.
- The Tigers managed 14 assists, with McDaniel leading with six.
- Memphis was outrebounded 52-39, a factor in their struggle to maintain momentum.
- The bench contributed 20 points, a low mark for the season.
Looking Ahead
Memphis aims to rebound as they return home to face UAB on Sunday at FedExForum. The Tigers will look to build on their flashes of brilliance and turn them into a complete game performance.
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