As Memphis’ non-conference schedule nears its conclusion, Vanderbilt arrived at the FedExForum for only the second time ever. The Commodores entered with a record of 4-7, while the Tigers came in as 18.5-point favorites.
With Vanderbilt struggling, Coach Stackhouse with a chip on his shoulder, and Memphis fresh off three straight top-25 wins, this seemed like a trap game. The contest lived up to expectations as Vanderbilt gave Memphis everything they had, but the Tigers crawled away with a 77-75 victory.
Nae’Qwan Tomlin notably made his debut today after being approved for Memphis’ grad program this week.
Summary
Despite their record, Vanderbilt made the Tigers work for everything in the first half, outrebounding Memphis and connecting from deep. Memphis had its opportunities to take the lead, but Vanderbilt led by one at the half, effectively containing David Jones to seven points on 2/5 shooting.
Memphis emerged from the locker room with a higher sense of urgency, putting together a 9-0 run straight out of the gate to take the lead. Vanderbilt, however, continued to stick around, even controlling the game and building a seven-point lead.
As a team, the Tigers didn’t shoot well throughout the contest, relying on their defense and key runs. Crucially, Memphis got 10 steals and forced 17 Vanderbilt turnovers. Once the Commodores got their biggest lead, Memphis came alive again with a 12-0 run.
Although not their best performance, Memphis would hold on to move to 10-2, avoiding a potential Quad 3/4 loss.
Individual Storylines
Tomlin after becoming eligible this week, checked in for Memphis for the first time four minutes in. He would immediately make an impact, nailing a three and erupting the crowd. The Kansas State transfer would end the game with eight points.
David Jones continues to excel, despite missing six free throws. Carrying the offensive load for Memphis, Jones scored 28 points. In December, Jones is averaging an impressive 25 points per game.
Jaykwon Walton has continued to struggle dramatically from behind the arc. Over the last four games, Walton has shot 0/17 from three.
Thoughts from Penny
“Really ready to get some rest; this has been very taxing on me for the last nine games because every game has been a very tough game. I haven’t got too much sleep. Very proud to be at 10-2 after these first 12 games.”
