The University of Memphis Men’s Basketball team arrived at Fertitta Center ready to put it all on the line, as they faced the Houston Cougars. On a 2-game winning streak, they knew a lot was at stake. They have not gone to the NCAA tournament since 2014, so a win would be extremely important to them. They would be able to enter the tournament with some much-nedded steam.
In the first half of the game, Memphis shot 5-for-7 from the field to open up an early 4-point lead on Houston. A 7-0 run put them ahead 9-5. After going head to head over the next few minutes, Houston came back to tie it at 16 at the 9:29 mark. The team started 3-for-10 from the floor, but eventually, they started to be more consistent with their shots. A layup by Houston’s Quentin Grimes gave them a 2-point lead. From there, Houston was on top the rest of the way. The first half ended with Houston leading Memphis 39-35.
Memphis started the second half just like the first. They went on another early 7-0 run. A pair of free throws by Landers Nolley II allowed Memphis to retake the lead. However, it did not last long. A three-pointer by Justin Gorham of Houston put his team back in front. The game went back and forth following that point, where both teams took turns owning the lead. It wasn’t until late that Houston went up by 5 with about 2 minutes to play.
While being down in the final seconds, Boogie Ellis of Memphis tied the game at 64 with a three-pointer. That would not put the icing on the cake just yet, though. With 1.5 seconds left, Houston was inbounding. Tramon Mark made the game-winning three-pointer at the buzzer off the assist by Marcus Sasser. Houston defeated Memphis 67-64.
In only his first year, Mark is averaging 8.6 points and 3.2 rebounds a game. He’s also 41.1% from the field.
The loss sealed the deal for Memphis to be seeded at No. 3 in the AAC Tournament. Although they lost, they can take a break as they earned a first-round bye. The team will be playing in the quarterfinals. On the other hand, Houston earned a No. 2 seed. They will be getting a break as well, as they are also first-round byes. Depending on their next games’ outcome, these teams may face each other again in the semifinals.
“These guys are used to winning, they’re used to succeeding.” Coach Kelvin Sampson said. Sometimes when you’re used to winning you find a way when maybe that way won’t present itself.”
Next Up:
Houston will face the winner of Tulsa vs Tulane on Friday, March 12th at 7 pm in game 6.
Memphis will face the winner of East Carolina vs UCF on Friday, March 12th at 10 pm in game 7.
