Memphis Women’s Basketball Achieves Crucial AAC Victory Over Temple
Memphis Tigers Break Losing Streak with a Tight Finish
In an afternoon that rekindled the spirits of the University of Memphis women’s basketball team, the Tigers clawed their way to a narrow 59-57 victory over the Temple University Owls. This triumph on Sunday marked their first American Athletic Conference (AAC) win of the season and put an end to a disheartening five-game losing skid. The hard-fought win adjusts Memphis’s record to 5-11 overall and 1-4 in AAC play.
Fast Start and Resilience
Memphis initiated the contest with determination, as Shelbee Brown‘s initial four points suggested a promising start for the Tigers. Despite Temple’s swift 9-0 response, Memphis showcased their resilience. A combined effort from Ki’Ari Cain, Madison Griggs, Hannah Riddick, and Kai Carter concluded the first quarter with a 10-0 run, securing a 14-9 lead.
Defensive Dominance and Offensive Challenges
The second quarter was characterized by a defensive showdown, with Memphis stifling the Owls to a mere seven points and inducing seven turnovers. While the Tigers’ defense was unyielding, their offense faced hurdles, struggling to maintain the initial momentum. Nonetheless, contributions from Brown, Griggs, and Aliyah Green extended the Tigers’ advantage to 23-16 at the break.
Temple’s Counterattack and Memphis’s Stand
The game’s narrative took a dramatic turn when Memphis extended their lead to 27-16, only to witness Temple’s fierce comeback led by sharpshooters Aleah Nelson and Kendall Currance. The Owls’ three-point barrage trimmed the lead to a slim two points. However, Memphis held firm, with strategic free throws and continued defensive pressure, ending the third quarter up by four points.
Clinching the Win in the Final Seconds
The final quarter was a nail-biter, with both teams exchanging leads. The game’s climax saw Memphis and Temple locked in a score-for-score battle. Critical free throws by Madison Griggs in the dying moments eventually sealed the game for the Tigers, with a triumphant 59-57 scoreline.
Notable Performances and Team Effort
Alasia Smith emerged as the standout player for Memphis, notching her fifth double-double of the season and the 33rd of her collegiate career, amassing 18 points and 10 rebounds. Madison Griggs and Shelbee Brown also made significant scoring contributions with 14 and 10 points, respectively. Defensively, the Tigers were formidable, forcing 22 turnovers and capitalizing with 19 points off these opportunities.
Looking Ahead
The Tigers aim to carry the momentum from this victory into their next game. They will face the challenge of Wichita State on the road on Wednesday, Jan. 17. Fans and supporters can catch the action at 6 p.m. on ESPN+, as Memphis looks to build on their confidence-boosting win and climb higher in the AAC standings.
