Memphis basketball has had a challenging week, but the Tigers managed a crucial 65-63 win against Wichita State.
Head coach Penny Hardaway reflected on breaking the slump, saying, “We got into a slump. We get out of it with a tough win. The fashion in which we got out of it shows you who we are moving forward. I am glad we got the win in the fashion that we did. We have some positive tape to watch.”
Hardaway addressed the team post-game, emphasizing the importance of this win: “It feels good to get off this losing train. I praised the guys for staying in there that fought. All we were looking for was one win. Just one win to get us over the hump.”
The Tigers faced an early deficit, with a Dave Jones three-pointer marking their first score. Jaykwon Walton’s layup later brought them within two. At halftime, the Tigers trailed 30-24.
Hardaway acknowledged the first-half turnovers: “The pressure of losing is like the pressure of winning. When you lose at home, there is way more pressure on you… At halftime we watched film, and the nerves were better. I am learning to deal with it.”
Dandridge’s spirited performance initiated a comeback in the second half. Despite trailing, the Tigers rallied late in the game, with Jones tying the game and Quinerly hitting a crucial three-pointer for the lead. Jones’ last-second jumper sealed the win.
Colby Rodgers led the Shockers with 19 points. For the Tigers, Jones had a standout performance with 26 points, praised by Hardaway as “very special.”
Quinerly reflected on the team’s mindset: “This was a big win for us coming off a four-game losing skid. I am proud of the guys and the fight that was showed.”
The Tigers next face Temple on February 8th, followed by a game against Tulane on February 11th.
