The Changing Game: Are the Memphis Tigers now the hunted?

Video Transcript

In today’s vlog, Derrick Branch from Strike 7 Sports discusses the recent performances of the Memphis Tigers in college basketball. Fresh off a narrow two-point victory over Vanderbilt last Saturday, the Tigers are riding a five-game winning streak. This streak includes impressive wins over formidable opponents like Texas A&M, Clemson, Virginia, and, most recently, Vanderbilt.

Resilient Memphis holds off Vanderbilt’s upset bid.https://t.co/Ov3sTnUCX3

— Strike 7 Sports (@strike7sports) December 24, 2023

Despite Vanderbilt’s struggles this season, this victory has propelled Memphis from the 23rd to the 19th in the top 25 rankings. A lot of buzz has surrounded the Tigers following the Vanderbilt game, particularly their performance and teamwork. There has been some criticism of star player David Jones, particularly concerning his decision-making and ball distribution. Yet, it’s undeniable that Jones has been instrumental in the team’s success.

An interesting perspective I came across is the changing role of Memphis in college basketball. Previously seen as the ‘hunter,’ striving to excel and break into the upper echelons of college basketball, Memphis is now becoming the ‘hunted.’ Their rising rankings mean that every team they face is looking to bring their best game against them.

However, I believe Memphis embodies both roles. Even before their climb in the rankings, teams were gearing up to face them. Games against Missouri, Ole Miss, Texas A&M, and VCU were all packed events, showing the draw Memphis has. As the defending American Athletic Conference champions, Memphis is familiar to attention. But this season, they’re sharing the spotlight with Florida Atlantic, especially after FAU’s Final Four run last year.

Despite not winning the conference, FAU is now seen as a top contender in the AAC, thanks to their recent victory over Arizona, which boosted their ranking significantly.
Comparing brands in college basketball, like Clemson and Arizona, it’s clear that brand recognition plays a significant role in rankings and public perception. Clemson’s drop in rankings and Memphis’s steady climb illustrate this point.

Memphis represents a dual identity in college basketball. They are both the ‘hunter,’ seeking to maintain and elevate their status, and the ‘hunted,’ as teams eagerly anticipate matchups against them. Even lower-tier teams, like Vanderbilt, have shown they can challenge Memphis, as evidenced by the close game and multiple lead changes.

In a recent post-game press conference, coach Penny Hardaway attributed some of the team’s recent sluggishness to fatigue, considering the challenging games they’ve played recently. Nonetheless, the group continues to show resilience and adaptability.

“I don’t think it was feeling ourselves. I think that the guys are tired; we’ve been rolling. There hasn’t been any rest for the weary, meaning we’ve had a couple of weeks off, but we prepared very hard for those teams because we know we needed to beat them.” Coach Hardaway said.

Looking ahead, Memphis faces Austin Peay in their last non-conference game of the season. It will be interesting to see how they perform, especially after a break and time to regroup.

So, Tiger Nation, what do you think? Is Memphis still the ‘hunter’ in college basketball, or have they become the ‘hunted’? I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Check out Strike 7 Sports for more content on the NFL, NBA, and college sports, including the Memphis Tigers. Until next time, stay safe and keep enjoying the game!

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