News Summary
Memphis University made history by winning the American Athletic Conference (AAC) tournament with an 84-72 victory over UAB. The Tigers not only captured the tournament title but also became the first team in the AAC’s history to secure both the regular season and tournament championships in the same season. Led by Coach Penny Hardaway and standout performances from PJ Haggerty, Dain Dainja, and Colby Rogers, Memphis improved their season record to 29-5 and is set to compete as a No. 5 seed in the upcoming NCAA Tournament.
Exciting Victory for Memphis University: AAC Champions!
In the vibrant city of Fort Worth, Texas, Memphis University made history by clinching the American Athletic Conference (AAC) tournament championship with a thrilling 84-72 victory over the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). This win not only adds another trophy to the illustrious Memphis basketball program but also marks them as the first team in the AAC to achieve both the regular season and tournament championships in the same season. Now that’s what we call a double whammy!
Meet the Fit and Fearless Tigers
Headed by Coach Penny Hardaway, the 16th-ranked Tigers showcased an impressive performance throughout the game. PJ Haggerty was the star of the night, putting up an impressive 23 points on the scoreboard. Dain Dainja also stood tall, capturing a solid double-double with 22 points and 12 rebounds. And we can’t forget Colby Rogers, who chipped in with 15 points to support the squad’s efforts, demonstrating that teamwork truly makes the dream work.
This win boosts the Tigers’ record to a staggering 29-5 for the season, solidifying their reputation as one of the powerhouses in college basketball. With this championship under their belt, the Tigers are headed to their 29th NCAA Tournament appearance, and they’ll be going in as a solid No. 5 seed in the West Regional. They’re set to face Colorado State, who holds a record of 25-9, on Friday. Talk about high stakes!
A Game to Remember
The game was charged with excitement, especially when Haggerty executed a crucial bank shot with 16:10 left in the second half, granting Memphis the lead that they would not relinquish. UAB’s Yaxel Lendeborg, last year’s AAC tournament champion, put up a valiant fight, racking up 19 points and 17 rebounds despite the loss. In total, Lendeborg finished the tournament with a remarkable 72 points and 50 rebounds, showcasing his grit even after three consecutive double-double performances.
Adding to the excitement, Baraka Okojie, a sophomore transfer from George Mason, made a significant impact by starting his first game for Memphis and kicking things off with a fabulous 3-pointer. His energy and enthusiasm were infectious, fueling his teammates to perform at their very best.
Building a Winning Culture
With their latest victory, the Memphis Tigers have further solidified their reputation as a dominant force in collegiate basketball. Coach Hardaway is dedicated to fostering a culture of winning associated with the Memphis name. This commitment was evident on the court as the players poured their heart and soul into the game.
As Memphis looks ahead to the NCAA Tournament, fans and supporters are buzzing with excitement. This championship win not only adds to the accolades of the basketball program but also reaffirms Memphis’s position as a competitive player in the world of college sports.
With so much momentum on their side and the spirit of victory in the air, the Memphis Tigers are gearing up for what promises to be an exhilarating NCAA showdown. Here’s to hoping they carry the same fierce energy into their next game as they strive for greatness and make their mark on the national stage. Go Tigers!
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Additional Resources
- Memphis Wins AAC Conference Tournament
- New York Times: Men’s College Basketball Bubble
- Daily Memphian: Memphis Tigers Basketball
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Basketball
- USF Men’s Basketball Falls to Memphis
