Memphis vs Cincinnati: 2019-20 key storylines for return game at Bearcats

CINCINNATI, OH - DECEMBER 18: Jarron Cumberland #34 of the Cincinnati Bearcats drives against Jordan Bowden #23 of the Tennessee Volunteers in the first half of the game at Fifth Third Arena on December 18, 2019 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

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PORTLAND, OREGON – NOVEMBER 12: Precious Achiuwa #55 of the Memphis Tigers (Photo by Steve Dykes/Getty Images) /

Who’s Healthy for Memphis?

Probably the biggest storyline for the game is whether or not Precious Achuiwa is going to suit up for the Tigers and if he does, is he going to be remotely close to 100%? The Tigers season is hanging in the balance as Memphis travels to Cincinnati for a Thursday night contest in which the Tigers are in desperate need of a win.

Memphis was without DJ Jeffries as he continues to try and get back from a lower leg injury, Jeffries is averaging 10.8 points per game this season. He will not be available for Cincinnati as he was given a 4-6 week timetable.

Penny Hardaway and company suffered a brutal defeat this past Sunday as the Tigers fell to a poor South Florida team. Precious had to be helped off the floor with an injury putting his status for the Thursday night game in serious jeopardy.

His teammate Lance Thomas also left late on in that game with what was later diagnosed as severe cramps. Having him back should be a boost assuming he’s able to go.

Malcolm Dandridge is expected to be a go as well, he’s started four games this season and has been a contributor off the bench. He was absent from the South Florida game on Sunday.

A lot of banged-up bodies for Penny Hardaway as he tries to rally the locker room and get them refocused and reenergized for what is sure to be a physical game in one of the conference’s most hostile environments.