Video Transcript
The Memphis Tigers opened their 2023-2024 basketball season with a matchup against the Jackson State Tigers. In this video recap, we delve into the thrilling action that unfolded on the court, highlighting key moments and standout performances.
A Familiar Face on the Sidelines
Before diving into the game itself, it’s essential to acknowledge Jackson State’s head coach, Mo Williams. Mo Williams, a former NBA player known for his stint with LeBron James’ era Cleveland Cavaliers, returned to his parent’s alma mater to coach the Jackson State team. With Williams at the helm, Jackson State entered the game with determination and a fighting spirit.
The Starting Lineup
Memphis Head Coach Penny Hardaway made an intriguing decision regarding the starting lineup for this game. The lineup featured Malcolm Dandridge, David Jones, Nicholas Jordain, Jaykwon Walton, and Jahvon Quinerly. Notably, Dandridge started at the center position, a choice that raised eyebrows and sparked discussions among fans.
Interestingly, in a preseason video, I had projected Malcolm Dandridge as the starting center, a move that received skepticism from some fans. However, in this game, Dandridge justified his place in the starting lineup with an impressive performance.
A Scorching Start
The game tipoff is a highly competitive matchup. Jackson State was able to weather the storm regarding the offensive output that Memphis presented in the opening moments of Monday’s game. However, the Tigers would lock in and assert their dominance of Jackson State. A standout player in the first half was Jaykwon Walton, who showcased his scoring prowess, amassing 15 points in just over eight minutes.
A Team That Can Shoot
One of the most significant takeaways from this game was the team’s shooting ability. Memphis exhibited their proficiency from beyond the arc, draining a total of 11 three-pointers. Their three-point shooting percentage stood at 39.3%. While it’s essential to acknowledge that the opponent was Jackson State, it was evident that Memphis possessed multiple scoring options and could light up the scoreboard.
The Bench Contribution
Beyond the starting five, Memphis also received valuable contributions from their bench players. Jordan Brown, Jayhlon Young, Ashton Hardaway, Caleb Mills, and Jayden Hardaway made significant contributions, showcasing the team’s depth and scoring versatility.
Maintaining Defensive Prowess
One of the key challenges this season will be balancing offensive firepower with defensive readiness. Coach Penny Hardaway aims to maintain a solid defensive unit while playing at a fast pace on offense. The team displayed its defensive proficiency by forcing turnovers throughout the game, converting them into valuable points.
Turnovers and Imperfections
While the victory was impressive, it’s crucial to acknowledge that the game had flaws. Turnovers were an issue for both teams, with Memphis recording 16 and Jackson State 23. These turnovers provided opportunities for improvement, something the coaching staff will undoubtedly address moving forward.
Looking Ahead
This game served as a promising start to the season, with Memphis showcasing its scoring ability and defensive tenacity. However, the actual test awaits as they face Missouri in their next game, a matchup that will provide a more significant challenge. The Tigers aim to continue winning, and fans eagerly anticipate how this season will unfold.
In summary, Memphis Tigers fans have reason to be excited after a strong season opener. The team’s ability to score, combined with their defensive prowess, bodes well for the upcoming challenges in the 2023-2024 season. Stay tuned for more updates and analysis on Memphis Tigers basketball throughout the season. Don’t forget to like, comment, subscribe to our channel for more content, and visit our website, strike7sports.com, for comprehensive coverage of Memphis Tigers sports.
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