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Can Memphis Tigers' Defense Be the Key Against Alabama State Hornets?

The Memphis Tigers secured a decisive victory over the Alabama State Hornets with an 88-67 final score, improving their record to 1-0. The Hornets, on the other hand, fell to 0-1. The game was held at FedExForum in Memphis and showcased a strong performance from both teams.


Dec 22, 2025; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Alabama State Hornets guard Tyler Mack (5) shoots the ball against the Alabama State Hornets during the first half at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Wesley Hale-Imagn Images

First Half


In the first half, the Tigers established their dominance early on by scoring 42 points against Alabama State's 33. Dug McDaniel led the charge for Memphis with his impressive shooting accuracy and defensive prowess. His ability to intercept passes contributed significantly to his team's lead. Meanwhile, Thierno Sylla made his presence felt in defense with crucial blocks that thwarted several of Alabama State's scoring attempts.


The Hornets struggled initially but managed to keep pace thanks to their bench players who contributed a substantial portion of their first-half points. Despite being outscored, they showed resilience by capitalizing on second-chance opportunities and fast breaks.


Second Half


As play resumed after halftime, Memphis continued its offensive momentum by adding another 46 points while maintaining solid defensive pressure. Curtis Givens III emerged as a key player in this period with his sharp shooting from beyond the arc and quick assists that kept the ball moving efficiently across court lines.


Alabama State attempted a comeback through strategic plays aimed at exploiting gaps in Memphis' defense but were met with resistance as Quante Berry's defensive skills came into play once more—securing steals that disrupted any potential runs by their opponents.


Despite these efforts from both sides during this half of gameplay action-packed moments unfolded where each team displayed commendable athleticism yet it was ultimately decided upon how well they executed under pressure situations which favored home side greatly due largely part because effective teamwork coordination among its roster members like Aaron Bradshaw whose rebounding efforts ensured possession remained firmly within grasp throughout much contest duration itself!


Post-game Analysis


Reflecting upon post-game report Memphis Tigers demonstrated exceptional efficiency overall especially when considering factors such field goal percentage standing at impressive rate fifty-one percent alongside three-point conversion rate forty-three percent respectively; these statistics highlight not only individual talent present within squad but also collective synergy exhibited throughout match entirety itself thereby resulting favorable outcome witnessed today against formidable opponent such as Alabama state hornet’s lineup who despite valiant effort ultimately succumbed superior tactics employed effectively neutralize threats posed them time again until final whistle blew signaling end encounter altogether leaving fans eagerly anticipating next chapter journey ahead!


Looking forward towards upcoming clash scheduled December thirty-first four PM Eastern Standard Time venue being none other than FedExForum located right here heartland USA city known affectionately simply “Memphis” where they'll face off against North Texas Mean Green broadcast live via ESPN2 network ensuring supporters everywhere can tune witness firsthand what promises be another exciting showdown between two competitive teams vying supremacy court once more! Share your thoughts about this game and stay tuned for more updates!

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