Your move, Shirley

By Adam Douglas

Sports Editor

Adam Douglas

 

Two days removed from the firing of head football coach Larry Porter and the announcement of athletic director R.C. Johnson's retirement, what's the next move for The University of Memphis and president Shirley Raines? Tuesday, as promised, The University named a search firm that will head the process of finding a Porter's and Johnson's replacements.

Eastman & Beaudine Management Consultants will team with Dr. Raines and a U of M search committee in finding the best fit for The University's struggling football program. Based out of Plano, Texas, the group is one of the leading collegiate sports search firms in the country.

So since they're such a big deal, does that mean that they know what Memphians want? Will they take what the fans, supporters and students have to say into consideration?

Here are some of the possible candidates that I've heard are being considered as successors to Larry Porter.

Candidate #1: Hugh Freeze

A Memphis native who is well known and respected around the Mid-South, Freeze is in his first year as the head coach at Arkansas State. He has led the Red Wolves to a 9-2 record this season, and after clinching the Sun Belt Conference Championship, the team will be playing in the GoDaddy.com Bowl. If Memphis does decide to make this hire, Freeze may not come cheap. Right now he is making a modest $202,160 annually, but chances are the Tigers won't be able to get Freeze at the same price.

Candidate #2: Houston Nutt

After spending four seasons at the helm of the Ole Miss Rebels football team and compiling a 24-26 record, Houston Nutt resigned at the end of this season. He may prove to be the best fit for a struggling Tigers team that is inept on the offensive side of the ball. But he'll likely come at a hefty price. His current annual salary at Ole Miss is $2.7 million, with a $6 million buyout attached in his contract. So if The U of M really cares about salvaging its football program, will they spare no expense?

Candidate #3: Mike Leach

In nine seasons, compiling an 84-43 record, Mike Leach, the "mad scientist" of Texas Tech's offense, was one of the best coaches in college football. But with all the baggage he brings to the table, are Dr. Raines and the administration ready to bring the circus to town that comes with hiring Leach? He would bring a pass-happy and prolific offense, but his price tag could be the highest of any of the aforementioned candidates.

Many other names have surfaced in The U of M's young search for a new head coach, but I think that Freeze, Nutt and Leach are the top three candidates who would be the best fit. Only time will tell who will emerge as the best man for the job.

And if they can't find anybody, then I'm available – I graduate next month.

 

Porter fired, Johnson to resign

By Adam Douglas

 

Sports Editor

 

Aaron Turner

University of Memphis athletic director R.C. Johnson announces his retirement, effective at the end of June 2012, in a press conference on Monday.

 

One day after relieving head coach Larry Porter of his duties as head football coach, University of Memphis athletic director R.C. Johnson announced his retirement at a press conference Monday in front of friends, fans, administration and supporters. His retirement not immediate, the 70-year-old Johnson will stay at The U of M until the end of the fiscal year, which is June 30, 2012.

"It's been a great ride, but it was just time," Johnson said. "I've been the athletic director here for 16 years. I've run out of ties, and I have no hairpieces left – it's time to move on."

University of Memphis president Shirley Raines, who was also in attendance, said that efforts find a new athletic director and head football coach will be swift and aided by resources outside The University.

"I have decided to use a search firm that specializes in athletics in hiring the next head coach," she said. "The timeline – which I know you all are interested in – is completing the search as soon as possible, but with time for the search firm to vet the candidates."

Johnson will have no input in the hiring of the next head coach.

"I don't want my future to take away from anything we're trying to accomplish," he said. "We've got a lot of things going on and I don't want any distractions."

The Tigers football team posted a 3-21 record in Porter's two years as head coach. The team won just one Conference USA game.

Hiring a new coach is the first step in reversing the Tigers' losing ways and regaining the support of fans and students, Raines said.

 "Obviously we want to win. That will help," she said. "Having a head coach who will be interactive with the students, alumni and fans will be very important to us."

Porter discussed his firing at a press conference held after Raines' and Johnson's remarks on Monday.

"Although I'm very disappointed in the decision of my firing, I understand it and respect it," he said. "I am thankful for the opportunity that R.C. (Johnson) and Dr. Raines gave me. I wish I could have taken this program to a higher level."

Throughout the press conference, Porter referred to the football program as "we," and didn't hesitate when doing so.

He said that he'll remain a supporter and fan of Tiger football.

"I say ‘we' because I will forever be a Tiger and forever want to see this program succeed."

Tigers bounce back at home to trounce Jackson State 70-45

By Adam Douglas

Sports Editor

After two losses in the Maui Invitational that dropped the No. 8-ranked Tigers to No. 21, Memphis was looking to rebound – in every sense of the word – against a Jackson State University team that they were supposed to dominate. Though the Tigers (3-2) won handily, 70-45, there seemed to be a lack of effort from the team Monday night.

"We were lackadaisical in the first half," said head coach Josh Pastner. "I ranted, raved in the locker room but without curse words. I don't know if it was a Maui hangover or what, but we have got to play better against Austin Peay on Saturday. I can tell you that."

The Tigers had only two scorers in double figures.

Sophomore guards Joe Jackson and Chris Crawford led Memphis with 15 points and 14 points, respectively. The main problem still plaguing the Tigers is rebounding. Jackson State outrebounded The U of M 36-29, and converted 90 percent of their free throws, shooting 10 of 11 from the line.

"The biggest thing is that we have got to rebound the ball better," Pastner said. "We do all these drills; we emphasize it. But we'll get it corrected."

The Tigers started the game lethargic and careless, turning the ball over seven times in the first half while scoring only 25 points to JSU's 19.

But the second half was a different story, as The U of M opened with a 15-0 scoring run with Crawford at point guard and Jackson off the ball.

Jackson State was unable to close the gap, and the Tigers won by 25 points.

"I really liked Chris (Crawford) at the point today," Pastner said. "He did some really good things as well as Joe (Jackson) did. Joe had three assists to just one turnover, but he still has to make the right plays and the right passes."

Junior forward Stan Simpson filled in for Tarik Black in the starting lineup. Pastner said that he sat Black in the beginning of the game to keep him out of foul trouble, and possibly motivate him.

Simpson responded by nearly posting a double-double, scoring seven points, snagging 10 rebounds and blocking five JSU shots.

"Coach said that whoever rebounds will play," Simpson said. "And I just figured that if I rebound, then we will be a better team."

The Tigers play Saturday against the Austin Peay Governors. Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m at FedExForum.

Tigers take down Vols in double OT thriller, 99-97

By  Adam Douglas

Sports Editor

 

The game was one for the ages. The University of Memphis Tigers (2-1) matched up against the Tennessee Vols in a consolation game and it turned out to be in the Maui Invitational one of the best games thus far. In a game mostly dominated by The U of M, the Vols mounted a comeback only to lose a heartbreaker in double overtime, 99-97.

The game started as the previous two regular season games for the Tigers have, sophomore big man Tarik Black picking up two cheap fouls and heading to the bench. But the deep Tigers bench, led by sophomore Antonio Barton and freshman Adonis Thomas, helped spur the Tigers to a 10-point halftime lead, 55-45. Barton had 17 points in the first half. Thomas had 11.

During the first half, Memphis led by as many as 16. But the Vols stayed relentless and would not give up. By the 4- minute mark of the second half, Tennessee pulled to within four at 77-73. But the Tigers, as they proved multiple times during the game, had an answer. After struggling in the quarterfinals against Michigan, sophomore guard Will Barton swished a go-ahead three pointer to stop the Vols' run and put the Tigers up 80-76. Closing the game out down the stretch proved to be very tough for Memphis, as they allowed the Vols to tie the game at 83 with .5 seconds left on the clock. Once the Tigers inbounded the ball, Thomas heaved a desperation half-court shot towards the basket, but to no avail – and into overtime they went.

The Vols began overtime scoring first with a couple of free throws and then a putback layup by Jeronne Maymon, two of his 32 points. But the Tigers answered with Wesley Witherspoon free throws to cut the lead by the Vols to 87-85. Both teams would trade baskets until Josh Richardson's three-pointer puts the Vols up by two, 91-89. Sophomore guard Chris Crawford answered back with a nifty layup around two defenders to tie the game at 91 and send the game into a second overtime.

With the game tied at 97, Antonio Barton hit a clutch shot, giving the Tigers a 99-97 lead with only .19 seconds left. It would prove to be the game winner. On the ensuing possession, the Vols couldn't get the ball inbounds and Witherspoon stole it with .8 on the clock. A last second try by the Vols fell short and the Tigers escaped with a 99-97 victory. Both Barton brothers finished with a combined 47 points, 17 rebounds and one assist.

The Tigers play Georgetown for the 5th-place finish in the tournament. Tipoff is scheduled for 4 p.m.

 

Tigers’ abysmal season ends much as it began

Football finale falls flat with 44-7 drubbing by C-USA rival Southern Miss

By Adam Douglas

  

Sports Editor

 

The game, dubbed "The Black and Blue Bowl," went one way – in favor of the Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles, as they crushed The University of Memphis (2-10, 1-7 in Conference USA) 44-7 on Saturday in Hattiesburg, Miss., the conclusion to the Tigers' 2011 season.

"I'm very disappointed in the way that we played," said head coach Larry Porter. "I thought with the preparation we had this week, I thought we'd come to play a much better game than we did."

The Golden Eagles dominated from the start, finishing with 540 yards (255 rushing, 285 passing) and 25 first downs while averaging more than seven yards per play. The Tigers averted a shutout when safety Mitch Huelsing recovered a Southern Miss fumble in the end zone with 6:54 left to play.

Memphis, ranked last in most C-USA offensive categories, played without starting freshman quarterback Taylor Reed, who suffered a fractured fibula in the team's Nov. 17 home loss to Marshall. The U of M managed only 181 yards of total offense, including seven yards rushing.

"First and foremost, (Southern Miss) dominated the line of scrimmage," Porter said. "I don't think we had much positive (yards) rushing. We can't afford to have three turnovers, especially pick sixes. That's negligent when it comes to football and that's something we kind of avoided for most of the season. It got us tonight."

Summerlin, making his second start, was 21-of-45 for 174 yards and threw two interceptions. Both interceptions were returned for touchdowns by the Golden Eagles, including a 100-yard return.

"We didn't play up to what we are capable of doing and that starts with me," Summerlin said. "It's frustrating. It hurts a lot to have this taste in your mouth. Unfortunately, I won't get to get rid of it until early September."

The loss marks the 19th defeat in the last 21 games for the Tigers. After two seasons in his first head coaching position, Porter has a 3-21 career record. The Tigers finished with double-digit losses for the third consecutive season.

 

Tigers can’t outsnarl Wolverines

By Adam Douglas

Sports Editor

 

This one went the way it was supposed to — for the Michigan Wolverines, that is. Michigan beat the Tigers at their own game and dictated their own pace, defeating Memphis with a brilliant game-plan 73-61 in the quarterfinals of the 2011 EA Sports Maui Invitational.

The Tigers (1-1) couldn't get anything going offensively and defensively. They opened the game cold, going 3-for-10 in the first minutes. Sophomore Tarik Black also got into foul trouble, picking up two personal fouls in the first 90 seconds of the game, forcing head coach Josh Pastner to go to the bench early and often. The experts had the Tigers winning this one big, but the No. 15 Wolverines played within themselves and kept the Tigers at bay by limiting Memphis' transition game.

The first half was a game full of runs. The Wolverines opened the game on a 10-4 run, followed by an 18-9 lead. But the Tigers, sparked off the bench by Chris Crawford and a hot-shooting Charles Carmouche, went on a 10-0 run to take an early 29-27 lead. Then Michigan, responding with a 10-0 run of their own, took a 37-31 lead into halftime. The Tigers would get no closer than that for the rest of the game.

The Tigers' defense had no answer for the Wolverines' attack. Sophomore guard Tim Hardaway, Jr., who finished the game with 21 points, seven rebounds and five assists, led a team that shot 54 percent from the field, 6-20 from the arc (30 percent) and over 70 percent from the free throw line. The Tigers were led by senior guard Charles Carmouche's 14 points and five rebounds. Sophomore guard Will Barton had a game he would like to forget. The Wooden Watch list player had nine points on 3-of-12 shooting, while forcing ill-advised shots and going 1 for 5 from the arc with four rebounds and one turnover

The Tigers shot poorly from the field, going 19-of-57 (33.3 percent) and shooting only 19 percent (4 of 21) from the arc. They're rebounding wasn't much better. The Wolverines outhustled the Tigers on the boards 35-29, but committed more turnovers with 16, compared to just six for The U of M. The Tigers didn't do a good job of sharing the ball, having just six assists on 19 made baskets.

The Tigers will return to action today at 1 p.m. when they play rival Tennessee in the consolation bracket.

Deja vu: Tigers collapse again in 4th quarter, lose to Marshall 23-22 in final home game

By Adam Douglas

Sports Editor

David Minkin

Freshman running back Artaves Gibson goes airborn while being tackled by Marshall defenders.

 

Both teams traded touchdowns in the first quarter, with the Tigers taking yet another lead into halftime, 13-10, and for the second consecutive game led going into the fourth quarter. And also like last game, The University of Memphis Tigers football team (2-9, 1-6 in Conference USA) couldn't hold the lead when it counted most, falling to Marshall 23-22 after dominating for much of the game.

Once again the Tigers won the turnover battle, 5-0, and once again they let a lead slip away. But in a game where the Tigers returned a blocked punt and a fumble for a touchdown, and had a punt blocked but managed to recover the ball for a first down, it would look like it would be your night to win. Somehow, though, the Tigers found a way to give another win to a reeling team in C-USA.

 "I thought our team played hard and played well in spurts," said head coach Larry Porter. "But the inability to finish just frustrates you. And I will not allow the players to hold their heads low for the effort they gave out there."

The effort was there in Thursday night's game. The Tigers intercepted Marshall backup quarterback Rakeem Cato twice, as well forcing to him to fumble, which led to a touchdown. Memphis had a touchdown on special teams, and when the Thundering Herd went up 7-0 out of the gate, the Tigers responded with their own 10-play, 69-yard touchdown drive. Initially, the Tigers didn't show any letdown from last week's debacle against UAB.

"The resolve in this team is one thing you can enjoy," Porter said. "We were trying to play this game to the bitter end. We wasn't taking our foot off the gas – we're in no position for that."

Unlike last week against the Blazers, the Tigers had chances to win down the stretch. After going down 23-22 with 6:02 left to play, The U of M punted, only to see another fumble fall their way with 2:00 left on the clock. Sophomore quarterback Andy Summerlin, who took over for freshman Taylor Reed midway through the third quarter after Reed was injured, marched the team down the field only to see them start dropping the ball once they crossed their side of the 50. Three straight dropped passes by Marcus Rucker, Tanner Rehrer and Reggie Travis turned the ball over on downs and gave Marshall a come-from-behind win in the fourth quarter.

"We didn't capitalize offensively," Summerlin said. "It's very unfortunate that it ended this way; our defense played great tonight and as an offense you've got to score points."

The Tigers wrap up the 2011 season next Saturday when they travel to Hattisburg, Miss. to play the Southern Miss. Golden Eagles. Kickoff is slated for 3 p.m.

 

 

Tigers all business in Maui

By Adam Douglas

Sports Editor

 

The University of Memphis Tigers basketball team was hard at work on Thursday preparing for their next opponent, Michigan, in the Maui Invitational. And while the players practiced, third-year head coach Josh Pastner was working to make sure Memphis doesn't have any letdowns on their three-day Hawaiian "business trip," as he called it.

"Obviously that was a good win the other day, but we've got to get a lot better," Pastner said, referring to the Tigers win against Belmont on Tuesday. "Going into Maui, we've got to clean some things up. There's no doubt about that, because we're playing a good Michigan team."

Pastner and the Tigers know there are a lot of things that need improvement. And with just one day remaining before their 9 a.m. flight, coaches and players alike are echoing the same serious sentiments about the three-game stretch.

"This is a business trip," Pastner said. "We're there to do a job. If you want to take a vacation, do it on your own time – I'm not in a vacation mood."

The Tigers know that they will be tested by a tough Michigan team that they feel will likely be better than its No. 17 ranking.

Beating the Wolverines is the first step in solidifying the Tigers' status as a top 10-team, said sophomore guard Will Barton.

"Winning the Maui Invitational will be real big for us," he said. "I think we will gain a lot of respect, because that's something that we're lacking as a team around the country."

Michigan will feature one of the best pound-for-pound guards in the country in Tim Hardaway, Jr. The 6-foot-6 sophomore combo guard is great at slashing and pulling up for jumpers.

But he does have weaknesses, some of which will be addressed defensively by sophomore Tigers guard Joe Jackson, who played with Hardaway on the Team USA Under-19 team over the summer.

"He can shoot it from anywhere; he's good at pulling up and can go left and right with the ball," Jackson said. "He plays like a prototypical two-guard in the NBA. His weakness is probably beating somebody off the dribble. He's not one of the quickest guards – but he's one of the biggest."

The Tigers and Wolverines open the Maui Invitational on Monday at 2 p.m. The game will be televised nationally on ESPN2.

 

Another top hoops recruit signs with UM

By Adam Douglas

Sports Editor

 

Right before their upcoming trip to the Maui Invitational, The University of Memphis Tigers basketball team got some great news.

As expected, class of 2012 Southwest Dekalb High senior forward Shaq Goodwin officially signed his letter of intent to play for the Tigers on Wednesday. The announcement comes 8 days after he verbally committed to the Tigers last Tuesday.

Goodwin, a 6-foot-8, 245-pound five-star prospect from Decatur, Ga., had also considered Arizona, Florida, Georgia and UCLA. He is the second commitment for Memphis during the early-signing period, joining his former Atlanta Celtics AAU teammate and Oak Hill Academy senior wing Damien Wilson (Va.). Wilson, a 6-foot-6, 190-pound wing from Mouth of Wilson, Va., signed with the Tigers last Wednesday.

Goodwin's mother told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution this week that her son was going to wait until the end of the season to sign, adding that he would take "a couple" more official visits.

"I just think through the process, everything just got on the same page," said head coach Josh Pastner in a press release. "It's a big decision, you know? That's why the letter of intent allows you to have a week. It gives you time. In the end, this is where Shaq and his mother wanted him to be, and that's Memphis."

Tigers fall to Illini, 62-54

By Adam Douglas

Sports Reporter

Joe Murphy

Junior forward Nicole Dickson contributed 11 rebounds and 10 points, nine of which came from three-point goals, in the Tigers’ loss to Illinois on Tuesday.

 

After winning their first two games of the season, The University of Memphis women's basketball team (2-1) seemed poised to win another one. Instead, they came up eight points short against the Fighting Illini of Illinois, 62-54 on Tuesday.

"We got beat by emotions," head coach Melissa McFerrin said in a press release. "We got beat by our own emotions; our own negative emotions got us."

Memphis battled through a tough first half where the Tigers were outrebounded 28-23. But Memphis stayed close, down 30-29 after Illinois went 5-for-14 from the free-throw line and effectively opened the door for a Tiger comeback in the second half. The U of M took a five-point advantage with 15:05 left to play, but Illinois answered with a run sparked by three straight offensive rebounds and cut the Memphis lead to 38-37 with 12:17 to go. Memphis was then blocked twice, and gave up two defensive rebounds when Lana Rukavina hit a layup with 11:33 to play to push the Illini back in front.

Memphis would knot the score at 47 with 7:30 to play when Nicole Dickson knocked down her third three-point field goal of the night. A steal by guard Brittany Carter led to a quick layup by Ramses Lonlack that put the Tigers back up, 49-47, with 6:33 to play.

But fouls and turnovers would begin to add up for the Tigers.

The Tigers committed three straight turnovers in just over a minute, with Lonlack, Carter and Lee all losing possession.

Illinois took advantage of the Tigers missteps, draining a jumper with 1:14 to go that started a 5-0 run to close out the game. Memphis was outrebounded 52-49 in the game. Neither team shot above 40 percent for the game.

Jasmine Lee and Nicole Dickson each finished with a double-double. Lee finished with 13 points and 12 rebounds, while Dickson finished with 10 points and 11 rebounds. Carter added 13 points before fouling out of the game, and Lonlack finished with 10 points.

The Tigers return home for a five game home stand on Saturday beginning with a game against Arkansas-Pine Bluff. Tipoff is 2 p.m at the Elma Roane Fieldhouse.

 

Tigers bruise Bruins 97-81

By Adam Douglas

Sports Editor

   

David Minkin

 

 

In a game where many experts either thought the final score was going to be close or thought the away team would somehow win, the No. 10 University of Memphis Tigers basketball team (1-0) made quick work of the Belmont Bruins on Tuesday afternoon, winning 97-81 in front of 16,294 fans at the FedEx Forum.

The Bruins did at one point lead the game 2-1 very early after tipoff, but the Tigers quickly regained the lead and never relinquished it from that point on. The Tigers' biggest lead at one point was 18, and the closest Belmont ever got was within seven points of Memphis midway through the second half.

"That was a great win for us; that's a good basketball team," said head coach Josh Pastner. "They're extremely well coached. They'll probably win 30 games again this year."

Though the final score indicates The U of M seemed in control for much of the game, it doesn't quite tell the battle that went on between the two teams.  There were technical fouls, elbows being thrown and scrappy play on both sides. Some positives for the Tigers included 20 assists on 34 made field goals, and fewer turnovers than the opponent, 18-9.

"The number one thing on offense for me is that the open man is the go-to man," Pastner said. "And single-digit turnovers, we had seven in the first half and two in the second, so I'm very proud of our guys for that."

The game wasn't easy for the Tigers. They missed 12 free throws, shooting 64.7 percent from the line, hitting 22 of 34 attempts. They were outrebounded 42-29, and couldn't stay out of foul trouble early. But with senior forward Wesley Witherspoon going 8-for-8 from the field and scoring 22 points to go along with 5 rebounds – arguably his best overall performance as a Tiger – the Bruins would not leave Memphis victorious.

"Wesley was elite today," Pastner said. "There was no doubt about that."

Sophomores Joe Jackson and Will Barton also helped the Tigers, each scoring more than 20 points. Jackson again looked like a true point guard, with seven assists and just two turnovers. Barton grabbed five boards and dished out three assists.

"We've got a lot of weapons," Barton said. "I expect guys to score and put up a lot of points. On any given night, Chris (Crawford), my brother (Charles) Carmouche or even (Tarik) Black can go for 20 points or more. It's scary."

The Tigers wore throwback uniforms from the 1972-73 team that went to the Final Four, and also honored former player and head coach Larry Finch by wearing a No. 21 patch on the right shoulder of the uniform. Pastner said the team will wear throwbacks throughout the season in commemoration of The U of M's 100th anniversary.

The Tigers return to action on Monday when they play No. 20 Michigan in the Maui Invitational. Tipoff is set for 2 p.m.   

Tigers set for 11 a.m. tip off

By Adam Douglas

Sports Editor

 

David Minkin

Sophomore guard Joe Jackson sends home a one-handed slam dunk in Friday’s exhibition game against Christian Brothers University.

Today marks the start of the 2011-2012 basketball season for The University of Memphis Tigers. And their first opponent on the season will be Belmont University, a team that narrowly lost to Duke on Friday night, 77-76. But third-year head coach Josh Pastner sees no reason that this game won't be as competitive as the Bruins' last.

"This Belmont game will be a very good game, and I've been saying it since the schedule came out," Pastner said. "We'll know a lot about our team after the game. We're excited about this game because we will be tested."

The Tigers come into the game expected to be one of the best teams in college basketball, ranked No. 10 in both ESPN/USA Today Coaches Poll and AP Poll, but the ranking doesn't matter to a team like Belmont, according to Pastner.

"We know Belmont's a good team," Pastner said. "You don't win 30 games, go to the NCAA tournament and bring back the same team and not be good. Our guys know that they're good, but our focus has got to be about us – Memphis."

The U of M's plan is to put full-court pressure on teams this season. And with the length, quickness and athleticism the Tigers possess, it shouldn't be hard to do. Belmont presents a difficult task for the young and talented Tigers. They usually like to slow it down and play a half-court game, like Christian Brothers. But Pastner sees a team that likes to mix it up, even playing to the Tigers' strengths.

"Belmont likes to pressure and play up-tempo too," he said. "I don't know if that's what they're going to do against us, but they like to full-court press and run up and down the floor as well."

 After the Tigers' game with the Bruins, it's off to Hawaii for the Maui Invitational. Memphis will play No. 18-ranked Michigan on Monday, Nov. 21, at 2 p.m.

Tigers’ defense stymies CBU

By Adam Douglas

Sports Editor

   

David Minkin

Sophomore guard Will Barton soars and dunks home two of his game high 27 points against Christian Brothers University on Friday night.

 

Before their final tune-up game on Friday night, U of M Tigers head basketball coach Josh Pastner insisted that defense will have to be the team's calling card this year. And for the first 10-12 minutes the Tigers looked like one of the best defensive teams in the country, albeit against a lesser opponent in Christian Brothers University. The Tigers began the game with full-court pressure, stifling defense and an early 24-point lead en route to cruising past CBU, 79-56.

"If we want to be as good as we want to be, we have to do it for 40 minutes," Pastner said. "Those first 10 or 12 minutes were fantastic. My issue is, why didn't we do it for the next 28 minutes? I told guys in the locker room, ‘You've set the bar. So I'm going to hold you to that standard and those first 10 or 12 minutes, that's how we're playing.'"

That tough Tigers defense caused CBU to miss their first 10 of 12 shots and shoot 9-of-23 from the floor for 39 percent. Five of those nine field goals came from the three-point arc. Pastner said he still doesn't understand why his team can't keep teams from shooting a high percentage from beyond the arc. The Buccaneers shot 37.9 percent from downtown, 11 three pointers in total for the game.

 "My biggest pet peeve is not allowing teams to be able to shoot the three-point shot," Pastner said. "You have to take the three-point shot away. That absolutely stresses me out to not be able to stop the three."

Though the Tigers were without preseason All-Conference USA second team sophomore Tarik Black, who missed the game due to knee soreness, they had plenty of frontcourt help from senior forward Wesley Witherspoon, who grabbed a team high nine rebounds to go along with seven points, three assists and two steals. Sophomore guard Will Barton, who led the team in scoring with 27 points, also chipped in on the glass with five boards.

"I know Wesley was 1-of-5 from the field, but he affected the game in so many other areas," Pastner said. "Will Barton is night-and-day different from last year to this year, and he's playing at a very high level."

The Tigers won't have much time to salivate over this exhibition victory, as they will have to prepare for their season opener today against a Belmont team that took No. 6 Duke University to the wire, losing 77-76. The game will start at 11 a.m. as a part of ESPN's 24-hour College Hoops tipoff Marathon.

Men’s and women’s hoops land marquee prospects

Men’s and women’s hoops land marquee prospects

By Adam Douglas

Sports Editor

   

 

 

 

The early signing period has begun, and both University of Memphis men's and women's basketball squads were highly active on Wednesday afternoon. On the men's side, 6-foot-6, 190-pound guard Damien Wilson has signed a national letter of intent to play for the Tigers, head coach Josh Pastner announced.

Wilson, from Mouth of Wilson, Va. Oak Hill Academy, is the first to sign with the Tigers and rated the No. 63 overall prospect in the Class of 2012 by ESPNU. While Wilson was expected to sign early after verbally committing last spring, another Class of 2012 signee has yet to sign his LOI. Southwest Dekalb High senior Shaquille Goodwin, from Decatur, Ga., still hasn't made any moves after verbally committing to The University of Memphis via his Twitter account. But head coach Josh Pastner is still content with the signing of Wilson.

"We're very excited to add Damien," Pastner said in a press release. "He's a tremendous player in the open court, and he's great around the rim. He has the potential to be a really high-level defender and rebounder. Assistant coach (Jack) Murphy did an excellent job recruiting him. We are very privileged that he has become part of the Tiger family, and we are excited for his arrival next year."

Not to be outdone by the men, the Lady Tigers basketball team boasts a huge signing class of their own. Head coach Melissa McFerrin's class features six signees and one of the top in the country according to ESPN.com's Hoopgurlz. Hoopgurlz rates Memphis' Class of 2012 as the No. 2 recruiting class by mid-major programs and that was before they added junior college transfer forward Devin Mack from Kishwaukee Junior College.

"The 2012 recruiting class is historic in terms of quantity, but more so in terms of quality," McFerrin said in a press release. "This group of six young ladies brings impressive individual credentials to the table. However, it is their collective focus on winning championships at the University of Memphis that excites me the most."

Prepared for battle

UM to face Alabama-Birmingham, former head coach Tommy West for Senior Day at Liberty Bowl

By Adam Douglas

Sports Editor

 

David Minkin

The University of Memphis Tigers football team looks to snap a three two-game skid against rival Alabama-Birmingham and former UM head football coach Tommy West, now the defensive coordinaor for UAB.

 

The Tigers (2-7, 1, 4 in Conference USA) are coming off a bye week and looking to finish strong to close out the 2011 football season. The Blazers (1-8, 1-5 in C-USA) are coming off a 56-13 loss to No. 11 Houston where they looked competitive for about two quarters.

Saturday's game at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium is the annual "Battle for the Bones" game, which is played between The U of M and UAB. Both teams are struggling this season in the win column.

This game will pit two of the worst football teams against each other, so something will have to give. The Tigers have one of the nation's worst defenses, giving up 34.8 points per game 107th. But the Blazers aren't exactly lighting up the scoreboards either. UAB comes into Saturday's contest ranked 116th in points for at 14.7 per game, while giving up over 37.4 points per game (115th) – lower than the Tigers.

Both offenses are abysmal at best, with the Tigers rushing game being the second worst in football, averaging 82.8 yards per game (119th). The run game for the Blazers averages 109.0 yards per game — that's 105th in college football. The only stats that both teams are not in the lower tier of the FBS, is the passing game. U of M brings the 92nd-ranked passing game to the field, while UAB's passing attack is a bit better at 219.9 passing yards per game (73rd).

The Tigers and Blazers have met on the gridiron 14 times prior to this Saturday. UAB holds a 9-4 edge, with the Blazers winning the last two encounters. Memphis' last home victory against UAB was a 25-9 win in the 2007 season.

Not only will Memphis welcome back former head coach Tommy West, who's now the defensive coordinator for UAB, Saturday's game is also Senior Day for 16 Tigers seniors. Senior Day is typically held on the last home game for the home team, but due to the Tigers having a weekday game against Marshall on Thursday, UAB was picked for the Senior Day matchup.

The game will be broadcast nationally by Comcast Sports Southeast (CSS) and will be slated for a 3:15 p.m. kickoff.

Big weekend ahead for Tiger fans

By Adam Douglas

Sports Editor

 

This weekend is full of University of Memphis activities, most of them being athletic events. And with all these opportunities to support Memphis athletics, it begs the question – are really a true blue Tigers fan?

The weekend begins with a pep rally beginning at 12:30 p.m. inside the University Center with players, coaches, cheerleaders and the pep band. Organizers have asked for students and faculty to show their school spirit by donning The U of M's colors, blue and gray.

But which event will draw the most attention? Here's a look at what I think sports fans will be eager to attend this weekend.

FRIDAY

Friday has an interesting slate of events for Tiger fans to choose from. The women's basketball team starts its season at the FedExForum at 5 p.m. against St. Louis University. Afterward, the men's basketball team will take the court to play Christian Brothers University in their final exhibition before the start of the regular season on Tuesday against Belmont. At the same time, the women's volleyball team will serve up kills against Tulane at the Elma Roane Fieldhouse. But since this is a basketball town, I think the bigger crowd will be at FedExForum on Friday night.

SATURDAY

Saturday will test diehard Tiger fans, as The U of M football team takes the field to play UAB in the annual "Battle for the Bones" game, which starts at 3:15 p.m. Pregame festivities may be the only thing drawing fans out to see a struggling football team in cold weather. At 7 p.m., the No. 3-ranked women's soccer team plays in the first round of the NCAA tournament at the Mike Rose Soccer Complex, which is also an outdoor event. But since the women have been winning, it will be worth sitting through that game. The volleyball team will also be in action as well on Saturday night, but are you really going to pass up women's soccer?

SUNDAY

As the weekend wraps up, Tiger fans have more basketball to look forward to, as the women's basketball team takes on Belmont University on Sunday afternoon at the Elma Roane Fieldhouse. The game should be an interesting matchup for the Tigers, the favorite to win Conference USA this season.

Tipoff is at 2 p.m.

 

Tigers to iron out a few kinks

By Adam Douglas

Sports Editor

David C. Minkin

Head coach Josh Pastner, left, gives some pointers to sophomore forward Tarik Black.

 

With two days remaining before their next exhibition game and less than a week from the official start of the season, the University of Memphis Tigers basketball team still has some tweaks to tend to, according to head coach Josh Pastner. With Friday's matchup against Christian Brothers University, the Tigers have the chance to address those issues one more time.

"Some of the things we tweaked was that a lot of the offensive rebounds that we gave up were a result of us not getting back off the press," Pastner said. "Christian Bothers gives us a totally different style than LeMoyne-Owen, which I think will be good for us to be able to prepare for conference play, because you always see different styles."

While Memphis adjusts those different styles, CBU will have to account for the Tigers carousel roster, as Pastner is still mum on a starting lineup and plans to continue spreading out playing time. The third year head coach said his team will have multiple starters throughout the season.

"Going into last game I was playing everybody," he said. "This game I am going to try to go with a more game-like situation, but I keep telling everyone that we don't have a set rotation – we have eight to nine starters. The guys know it, they understand it – those are the facts."

No matter who plays and how many minutes they play, Pastner wants his team's identity to be made on the defensive end of the floor.

"Our whole team, our whole identity this year has to be on the defensive end of the floor," he said. "Because as fast as we are, the one way to use our speed and quickness is to get stops – but we've got to rebound the ball. So our two biggest things are ball pressure, not giving other teams open threes and have the same type of game we had last game turnover-wise, with 11. I was proud of the guys for that."

Though Pastner doesn't quite know how the rotation will pan out this season, there will be one player unavailable to him for 30 or more games. Junior guard and forward Drew Barham decided to redshirt this season in hopes to have a better opportunity to play next season.

"It was a tough decision, but I thought it was the best decision at the moment and for my future," Barham said. "I have a lot that I can improve on to be ready for the next two years. I can have a strong junior and senior year as opposed to maybe a somewhat average junior and senior year."

 

NCAA awards Lady Tigers No. 4 berth in tournament

Women’s soccer team to face UT-Martin with 7-1 all-time series advantage

By Adam Douglas

Sports Editor

Aaron Turner

Above, The University of Memphis women’s soccer team anxiously awaits to hear its name announced as an automatic qualifier in the 2011 NCAA women’s soccer tournament. Below, the team reacts to the announcement of its pairing with UT-Martin in the first round.

 

One day after winning their fifth straight Conference USA title, the undefeated and No. 4 ranked University of Memphis women's soccer team (21-0-1) awaited their fate as they watched the 2011 NCAA women's soccer tournament selection show. And once the show began, the Lady Tigers quickly found out where they were seeded and how the rest of the country felt about them being undefeated, receiving a regional No. 4 seeding.

"When it comes to seeding, I felt like we were disrespected a little bit," said head coach Brooks Monahgan. "But I really like our draw; and when you look at Florida State, who got the No. 1 seed in our region, I think on paper they drew a tougher draw than we did."

The Lady Tigers are appearing in their fifth straight NCAA Tournament, and their opponent in the first round will be a familiar foe in Tennessee-Martin. The Tigers and Skyhawks have met eight previous times, with the Tigers holding a 7-1 advantage in the series.

The two programs haven't played each other since the 2007 season.

Though the seeding wasn't ideal for The U of M, players said they will make the most of it.

"We came up with a good draw," said senior defender Lizzy Simonin. "We feel very confident going into Saturday's game and looking forward to getting that monkey off our back."

Simonin was referring to the Lady Tigers failure to advance past the first round of the NCAA Tournament. But having to host a couple of home games should give the Tigers an edge and help make a deep run in the tourney.

"I think playing at home in the first round is massive," Monaghan said. "Hopefully we can continue to have the support that we've had during the season, plus the conference tournament; especially the tournament final – the atmosphere was incredible, and the kids really feed off that."

Though the regular season went according to plan, the faces of the players, coaches and well-wishers after the brackets were unveiled seemed to convey uncertainty about the Tigers position in the tournament.

"I think (the seeding) kind of shocked everybody because we came up first, and it was like, ‘There we are,'" Monaghan said. "I don't think it affects the girls at all – I know it doesn't affect me. We're just focused on who our next opponent will be."

The Lady Tigers will begin their quest for an NCAA Women's Soccer Championship on Saturday at 7 p.m. at the Mike Rose Soccer Complex.  

Reeling Tigers look to refocus after bye week

By Adam Douglas

Sports Editor

 

 

 

A bye week was just what The University of Memphis Tigers football team (2-7, 1-4 in Conference USA) needed after a lopsided 41-0 loss at the hands of defending C-USA champion Central Florida.  But the scheduling Gods dealt The U of M a bad hand, as the Tigers will play two games in the span of five days starting with this weekend's annual "Battle for the Bones" tilt against rival UAB.

What makes this matchup more intriguing is that the Tigers face their former head coach, Tommy West, now defensive coordinator for the Blazers.

West led the Tigers to five bowl games in ten seasons.

Second year head coach Larry Porter doesn't think that particular plot line will affect the outcome of the game.

"We haven't talked about that in general as a team or anything," Porter said at his weekly press luncheon. "But the best way for them to say thanks is to win."  

The Tigers will be facing a Blazers team that has had similar struggles this season. They're playing with a second-string quarterback, have had numerous injuries and countless setbacks – just like the Tigers. But despite their opponents' troubles, Porter sees this game as a dangerous matchup, and one that can also be an opportunity for the Tigers to finish the season strong.

"As you watch film on UAB, you see two different teams," Porter said. "You see a team that is very capable and then you see a team that struggles. So we have to prepare for the best team."

The week off gave some ailing Tigers a chance to get healthy. The break also gave Porter and his coaching staff time to re-evaluate the season and figure out what works and what doesn't work. Porter and company wasted no time trying to put the right players in the right situations in order for the team to be successful.

"(The bye week) was very much needed for us to grow and heal and recharge both mentally and physically," Porter said. "Our goal is to win November and finish strong. We kind of looked at it as well to see what plays were our best runs, our best passes to see how we can do those things out of different formations but continue to have the consistency and the productivity out of those plays."

This week's game is also Senior Day for 16 Tigers. Porter says he hopes fans will come out and support those graduating seniors for all their hard work and efforts over the last four years.

Kickoff for the "Battle for the Bones" is scheduled for 3 p.m.

Tigers’ exhibition opener provides fans with a look into what may be a magical season

By Adam Douglas

Sports Editor

  

David Minkin

 

Two years ago, he almost lost his first ever game as a head coach in an exhibition match against Christian Brothers University. One year ago, he said that he almost had an ulcer on the sidelines at the Tigers exhibition season-opener.

 

But this year, his Tigers won by more than 50 points on Wednesday against Lemoyne-Owen.

Is this year's Tigers team finally going to live up to the hype? Judging from third-year head coach Josh Pastner's impressions of the team, the answer could be "yes."

"I just think we have some really good players," he said after Memphis defeated LeMoyne-Owen 119-67 on Wednesday. "We are at our best when we are playing up-tempo. But our whole identity has got to be on the defensive end – we've got to make stops."

Memphis did some good things during Wednesday's game. They committed fewer turnovers than their opponent (11 to 25), they had more assists than turnovers (26 to 11) and they got out on the fast break and scored points. This was something that Pastner and his staff have been looking for from the Tigers throughout his short tenure as head coach. Wednesday seemed to be an indication that The U of M finally has all its pieces together, albeit they faced a team far less talented than them.

"The good thing about this game is that we can take this film and break it down and show our guys a lot of things we need to work on," Pastner said. "We have to get better pressing, get up and down the floor quicker. There are some positives, but there are some things to work on."

The Tigers ended the night with seven players scoring in double figures. Sophomore point guard Joe Jackson looking like a true offensive leader, dishing out seven assists and turning the ball over just once. Senior forward Wesley Witherspoon showed no ill effects from two prior knee surgeries.

"I think all of our guys played well," Pastner said. "Antonio (Barton) played well. Will (Barton) kept it simple. Wesley gave us some good minutes, and I was really proud of Joe. But I keep telling guys, Wesley and Joe are our X-factors for us. They both don't need to be Superman, they just need to play to their abilities and that's what they did tonight."

The debut of freshman forward Adonis Thomas and junior forward Stan Simpson wasn't bad either. Thomas finished the game with 11 points, two rebounds and two steals. Simpson, carving up the paint, blocked three shots, grabbed seven boards and added 14 tough points. If those two can contribute like this for the rest of the season, a deep run in the NCAA Tournament may be in the future.

Six Lady Tigers receive postseason awards

By Adam Douglas

Sports Editor

   

Joe Murphy

The U of M women’s soccer team celebrates after defeating UAB last week.

 

Heading into today's Conference USA tournament at the Mike Rose Soccer Complex, the No. 9 U of M women's soccer team (18-0-1, 10-0-1 in C-USA) will look to capture its fifth consecutive C-USA crown.

And with six players and coach Brooks Monaghan all receiving postseason honors on Tuesday, as voted by the conference's 12 coaches, the Lady Tigers seem poised to do just that.

Senior defender Lizzy Simonin was named Defensive Player of the Year; sophomore midfielder-forward Christabel Oduro, Offensive Player of the Year; senior midfielder-forward Lizzy Hildebrant, All-Conference Second Team; and Kylie Davis and Natalia Gomez-Junco, All-Freshmen Team.

Simonin and Oduro join senior goalkeeper Elise Kuhar-Pitters as All-Conference First Team selections.

"The girls have been special this year," Simonin said. "The freshmen and sophomores have followed the upperclassmen and they have led the way. I think that's what brought us to where we are this year – having good leadership and good chemistry."

That leadership and chemistry will be key as the Lady Tigers turn their focus to the C-USA tournament. Oduro said that with team's undefeated season and awards, the Lady Tigers will have a target on their back.

"(Tulsa) will be playing us extremely hard because we've beat them before," she said. "They will be coming out for blood wanting to get that game back. I think it's going to be tough, but I know if we play our game there's no reason for us not to bring home a fifth conference title."

Head coach Brooks Monaghan was named C-USA Coach of the Year for the second time in his tenure at Memphis. Monaghan, a graduate of The U of M, guided the Lady Tigers to a program-best 18 wins this season and a program-first undefeated season, establishing Memphis as a national power with a 104-33-10 (.742) mark since the 2004 season.

"This season has been unbelievable," Monaghan said. "The kids have made my job easy with what they bring every day. From a coach's standpoint, we just want it to continue and enjoy this ride as long as we can."

Monaghan said that though the regular season is over, the Lady Tigers still face a long road ahead.

"It's a three-game season," he said of the C-USA tournament, "and our focus is on Tulsa. When the tournament's over, the season's not over. We will refocus and hopefully improve and see where we're at so that we can make a deep run in the (NCAA tournament)."

The Lady Tigers face the Tulsa Golden Hurricanes on Wednesday at 8p.m.

 

Tigers roll in exhibition opener at FedExForum

By Adam Douglas

Sports Editor

David Minkin

Senior forward Wesley Witherspoon adds a pair of first-half points with authority against LeMoyne-Owen College in an exhibition matchup at FedExForum on Wednesday.

 

They set the tone early with rebounding and a stifling full court defense, creating turnovers that led to fast breaks in the Tigers dismantling of LeMoyne-Owen College, 119-67, in an Wednesday night exhibition match that opened Memphis' 2011-2012 basketball season.

Sophomore guard Will Barton led all scorers with 22 points, collecting five rebounds and dishing out four assists in only 18 minutes of playing time. His brother, Antonio, was a spark off the bench, hitting consecutive threes and shooting 5-for-8 from the field for 16 points as part of a 19-0 Memphis run midway through the first half.

"During the course of the offseason, I've been in the gym working on my shot all year round," Antonio said. "But the way me and my brother played tonight is credited to our mother. She tells us to go out every game and give your heart – there's no turning back."

The Tiger defense also looked improved, but despite holding the Magicians to just 67 points on the game, Memphis was unable to shut out the Magicians from the three-point line. Lemoyne-Owen shot better than 60 percent from beyond the arc in the first half. They finished the game shooting 32 percent from three.

"You guys know my number one thing is to take the three-point shot out of the game," said U of M head coach Josh Pastner. "How many times do you see teams that are lesser in talent beat teams because of the three-point shot? We have to take threes out of the game, but we couldn't because our hands were down and guys were shooting over us."

Junior forward Stan Simpson, making his Tigers debut, looked better than advertised, shooting 7-for-8 from the floor for 14 points. He also grabbed seven rebounds. His knack around the basket may be what the Tigers need to get over the hump this year.

"I thought Stan played well," Pastner said. "Credit goes to coach (Luke) Walton for that. Stan gets credit too – I think both guys deserve credit. Stan can help us because he plays hard; he played hard tonight."

Sophomores Chris Crawford and Tarik Black didn't have their best games. Black, who was not expected to play due to flu-like symptoms, had only four points in limited playing time. Crawford shot poorly from the field, but was stellar on defense.

"I just got to stay in the gym and take care of the ball more," Crawford said. "I missed a lot of shots tonight, but you live to shoot another day."

Memphis returns to action next Friday night at FedExForum to take on Christians Brothers University for another exhibition tune-up. Tipoff is slated for 7 p.m.

No. 9 Tigers ready to pounce

Even without a definitive starting lineup, Coach Pastner and 2011-2012 Tigers eagerly await starting

By Adam Douglas

Sports Editor

   

David Minkin

 

 

With just one more day until their first exhibition game and two weeks until the official start of the season, The University of Memphis Tigers basketball team is echoing the same sentiment they have all preseason – practice makes perfect, but the Tigers are ready to suit up against another team.

At practice on Monday, many players and head coach Josh Pastner said that come Wednesday, it'll be nice to play someone else in any type of game, albeit an exhibition.

"We're excited about the game Wednesday; it's been a long road getting here," said sophomore forward Tarik Black. "Last year, we came in during the summer and then started the season. But this year, we've been here through the whole year – the summer and Memphis Madness – and  now the season is finally about to start."

The team should be much improved from last season. They come into Wednesday's exhibition against LeMoyne-Owen College ranked No. 9 in the ESPN/USA Today Poll and No.11 in the AP Poll. With a year of maturity, the team feels they are better prepared to take on tough competition without having chemistry setbacks like last year.

"We've got to be focused from day one," said sophomore point guard Antonio Barton. "Last year, it took too long for us to click, and we can't wait that long because, like coach says, every team is good. So we have to take it seriously starting with the exhibition game."

The Tigers will again have a deep team, but a starting five and substitution pattern have yet to be determined by Pastner and his staff. Players know that they're name can be called at any minute, but when they'll hear their name is the question.

Pastner insists that it's too early to tell who will be starting, but says he will try to better manage the different lineups he will juggle in his third season as head coach.

"I haven't decided yet (on starters), but we're getting close," he said. "We literally have eight starters. We don't have a starting five – maybe a starting eight or starting nine. I want to make it easy for everybody here. I will try to keep the same starters the best I can."

Having a choice of playing eight or nine players may be a challenge for some teams, but this Tigers squad doesn't mind who starts and who comes off the bench.

"I can't speak for everybody, but it really doesn't matter to me who starts because we're so loaded," said sophomore guard Chris Crawford. "That's why in practice, everyone's competing against each other – it's so competitive."   

Golden Knights carve up Tigers 41-0

By Adam Douglas 

Sports Editor

 

 

 

In what was supposed to be a game where The University of Memphis would use a previous win as a stepping-stone toward improvement, the Tigers football team (2-7, 1-4 in Conference USA) was manhandled on Saturday afternoon by C-USA foe Central Florida, 41-0.

Sophomore dual-threat quarterback Jeff Godfrey led the Golden Knights.  

"I thought (Godfrey) got off to a good, strong start,'' said Tigers head coach Larry Porter. ‘‘He was the difference in the first half in what they were doing. He gave them the energy to play well.''

Godfrey completed 14-of-17 passes for 200 yards and a touchdown, and rushed for 97 yards and another score through nearly three quarters before UCF head coach George O'Leary decide to give him the rest of the game off.

"He can beat you with his legs and he can beat you with his arm,'' said defensive end Frank Trotter. ‘‘You've got to find a way to contain him or he's going to take control of the game."

The struggling Tigers offense gained just six first downs, 134 yards of total offense and 33 yards rushing with 21 carries.

The defense didn't put forth their best effort, either, surrendering 505 yards of total offense to UCF, allowing their opponent to score 40 or more points for the fourth time in nine games.

It was the 11th time in 20 games in Porter's tenure as coach.

"(UCF) played exceptionally well,'' Porter said. ‘‘I felt we gave up too much, too early — third downs and big plays. Offensively, we didn't show up the whole day.''

Freshman Taylor Reed completed 9-of-20 passes for 97 yards and was sacked three times. Sophomore Andy Summerlin, who went 1-of-5 for four yards, replaced Reed in the fourth quarter. Senior Tanner Rehrer extended his receiving streak to 13 games with a 21-yard catch from Reed in the first quarter. He was later injured and did not return. Redshirt junior Curtis Johnson led the Tigers in receiving with three catches for 48 yards.

Junior linebacker Kenyata Johnson led the Tigers defense with eight tackles, with Trotter chipping in with two tackles for a loss and one sack.

Though they were beaten badly on the scoreboard, Johnson said the Tigers still felt they were prepared for UCF.

"They didn't do anything special. We just didn't do what we were supposed to do, and they picked us up real well and made us earn everything we had,'' he said.

With talent aplenty, Tigers bench goes deep

By Adam Douglas

 Sports Editor

David Minkin

The U of M men’s basketball team before tipoff of a game last season. The team will benefit from a more well-rounded roster this season.

 

This year's University of Memphis men's basketball team, unlike the past two seasons, expects to be good.

Not only do they boast some of the best talent in the country with a few former McDonald's High School All-Americans, but they bring a No.9 ranking into the season. And one of the biggest reasons is their depth. But third-year head coach Josh Pastner said it's still tough to evaluate this year's team, which was the third youngest in the country last year.

"Guys are competing, guys are getting after it, but it's hard to judge right now because we're beating up each other," he said. "I think we look good, but we're only playing ourselves."

Though the season won't officially start until Nov. 15 when the Tigers open up against Belmont, players are very eager to play against Lemoyne-Owen College next Wednesday in an exhibition match. The Tigers will no doubt have a deep roster this season, but Pastner says he doesn't yet know how his starting five will look once it takes the floor in a real game. What he does know is how deep they will be. So picking starters will be something of a puzzle for him and his staff.

"We talked about it a little bit today," he said. "Just out of fairness, I want to give our guys a little more time. But the way our talent is, we're not going to be a five-starting team – those are just the facts."

So with this team being deep as it is, there shouldn't be a problem when someone gets into foul trouble. Last year's undersized team struggled to rebound the ball effectively, but Pastner said he will ensure such Tigers' deficiencies are addressed this season.

"Every day we keep a plus-minus chart on everything the guys do," he said. "Every day in practice, the two stats I'm talking about are defensive and offensive rebounding, along with assists-to-turnover ratio. I don't talk about nothing else."

One of the main cogs in the Tiger offense will be sophomore Joe Jackson, who said that though he's more than ready for the responsibility, his teammates will be ready to step up as well.

"Our team is so loaded that it's like playing another team in practice," he said. "We have a lot of weapons. Adonis (Thomas) can post guys, Will (Barton) can slash and shoot, Chris (Crawford) can pass and shoot and Wesley can handle the ball just as good as me, so if we play the right way, we can win easy."

 

Tigers face tough UCF ‘D’

The Daily Helmsman > Sports

 

Tigers face tough UCF ‘D’

By Adam Douglas

Sports Editor

David Minkin

Freshman quarterback Taylor Reed avoids a Tulane defender and throws for a touchdown in last weekend’s Conference USA win against Tulane.

 

Coming off an impressive 33-17 win on the road at Tulane, The University of Memphis Tigers football team (2-6, 1-3 in Conference USA) will look to build on that momentum as they go on the road once again to take on the Golden Knights of UCF in Orlando, Fla. The Tigers were led by defensive and special teams units that caused turnovers and helped create points for a struggling offense that has yet to find their stride this season. But second-year head coach Larry Porter thinks his team is starting to come around.

"I am very proud of the young men that are in our locker room," said Porter at his weekly press luncheon. "It basically validated what we have been saying all along, and that is that we must continue to push and press and stay the course on the things that we fundamentally believe in. And what was the difference in that game as opposed to the others that we have had in the past three or four weeks, I thought the difference was the ability to really respond to negative momentum."

The Tigers had all three phases working in last week's game against Tulane – offense, defense and special teams. And if they want to come away with a much needed second win in a row, then all three must show up again against a tough C-USA opponent in Central Florida. The Golden Knights boast one of the top defenses in the country, allowing just  16.3 points against per game (12th), a rushing attack that averages 171 yards per game (48th) and a passing offense that is ranked 51st with an average of 237.3.

"UCF is in an unfamiliar position in terms of what they have experienced in the past in being 3-4, losing the last two games," Porter said. "You still see a very quality team. Defensively, they are ranked top five in the country in total defense. They try to control the line of scrimmage, and the linebackers are very active and very productive.

Freshman quarterback Taylor Reed, who was 14-for-26 for 213 yards and two touchdowns and one rushing touchdown, will be welcoming back junior wide receiver Marcus Rucker who has been out the last few weeks due to injuries. Rucker's playing time, though, will probably be limited. So Reed and the Tigers will count on senior Tanner Rehrer and a host of young receivers.

"The thing about our team this year is we're family," Rehrer said. "We fight like family. We eat like family. We're just always trying to be relentless out there and just keep on coming."