20. Memphis (13-3)
While the AAC isn’t exactly the prosperous multi-bid conference that it might have once been, Memphis is doing their best to stand alone. The Tigers had an adventurous run through nonconference play that includes prominent wins over UConn, Michigan State, and Ole Miss and are now trying to build an even longer run of winning into league play.
That streak continued back on Sunday, as the Tigers held on for a 68-64 home win against North Texas. That game featured another classic effort from PJ Haggerty with 27 points as the Tigers’ defense hung on late for the win. This weekend featured a similar effort as Memphis won 74-70 over East Carolina, hanging on during a tough second half. Haggerty’s 25 points again led the show, as the Tigers survived a tough shooting game as a team.
This Memphis team lost at home to Arkansas State just over a month ago and can definitely shed games in league play, though they’re certainly the class of this conference. The AAC is right there for Memphis to take and control but these recent performances have been somewhat lackluster. Can this team keep up those great performances on offense and keep winning these games? It’s on the road next week at Temple and Charlotte, though Memphis is already 4-0 on the road this season.