The Memphis Tigers women’s basketball team defeated Alabama State 95-51 on Thursday night for their first win of the season. The victory gives first-year head coach Alex Simmons her first win with the Tigers.
Memphis holds a 1-1 record after losing their season opener to Middle Tennessee State.
Game Summary
Memphis started their home opener strong with a 9-0 run in the game’s opening minutes. They took a 16-2 lead into the first media timeout, with Rutgers transfer Kai Carter leading the way with nine early points.
A strong start on the defensive end held Alabama State to four points at the end of the first quarter. The Lady Hornets shot a measly 2-11 from the floor over the first 10 minutes.
The Memphis defense created plenty of opportunities for its offense throughout the contest. The Tigers forced 16 turnovers in the first half of the game as they took a 45-12 lead into the locker room at halftime.
The second half was more of the same for the Tigers, despite Alabama State scoring 17 points in the third quarter. Memphis shot 52% from the floor in the second half and continued to bring the energy on the defensive end, forcing another 14 turnovers.
Memphis senior guard Madison Griggs led all scorers with 18 points. She shot 6-10 from the field with four three-pointers. Three others also scored in double figures for the Tigers. Freshman guard Raven Sims had 16 points off the bench, while seniors Kai Carter and Destyne Jackson chipped in 11 and 10 points, respectively.
Memphis shot 48% from the field and 36% from the three-point line. The Hornets were outscored 31-15 on fast break points and by the Tigers bench 57-8. Memphis also held the game’s largest lead at 47 points late in the fourth quarter.
Altogether, every one of 14 available players for the Tigers saw action in the blowout win over the Hornets.
Up Next for Memphis
Memphis will return to action on Monday against #11 Tennessee. Tip-off is at 5:30 p.m. at Thompson-Boling Arena, with SECN+ broadcasting the game. The Lady Volunteers are coming off a tough road defeat at #18 Florida State. Star senior forward Rickea Jackson and Wake Forest transfer guard Jewel Spear lead the charge for a formidable Tennessee team.
