Tigers Cruise Into Christmas Break With 88-67 Rout of Alabama State
MEMPHIS, Tenn. –Dug McDaniel delivered one of the sharpest shooting performances of the season Monday night, pouring in 23 points to power Memphis to an 88-67 victory over Alabama State at FedExForum.The win snapped a three-game skid for Memphis (5-7), which closed nonconference play on a high note heading into Christmas break and the start of league action. Playing its second game in three days, the Tigers delivered their most efficient offensive performance of the season.Memphis set season highs with 13 made three-pointers and shot 50.8 percent from the floor (32 of 63), while finishing 13-of-30 from beyond the arc.McDaniel tied a career high by connecting on seven shots from beyond the arc, finishing 7-of-12 from deep. He also added three assists and two steals as Memphis showcased its most complete offensive outing of the year.Curtis Givens III chipped in 18 points off the bench, knocking down three triples, while Ashton Hardaway added 15 points to give the Tigers three double-figure scorers. Memphis assisted on 20 of its 32 made baskets and paired its offensive efficiency with a season-high 13 steals and five blocked shots.
The Tigers seized control early with a 9-0 run to open the game and carried a 42-33 lead into halftime behind 14 first-half points from McDaniel and 10 from Hardaway. Any lingering doubt was erased when Memphis opened the second half with an 8-0 burst, stretching the margin to as much as 23 points and forcing Alabama State to chase the game the rest of the way.Alabama State (3-9), coached by former Memphis player and assistant Tony Madlock, stayed within striking distance early but could not keep pace after halftime. Asjon Anderson led the Hornets with 16 points, while former Tiger Damarien “Dink” Yates scored 12.Memphis committed 18 turnovers, which led to 16 Alabama State points, but the Tigers’ shooting and defensive activity prevented any late suspense. Alabama State never got closer than 15 points in the second half.POSTGAME NOTES…