The Memphis basketball team delivered a commanding performance on Saturday, securing an 87-70 win over No. 16 Ole Miss in front of a packed crowd at FedExForum. The victory not only bolstered their March Madness résumé but also showcased the resilience and talent within the squad. With standout performances from Colby Rogers and Moussa Cisse, the Tigers demonstrated why they are a force to be reckoned with this season.

Unstoppable Force: Memphis Reclaims Momentum with Thrilling Win

A Triumphant Return for Colby Rogers

Colby Rogers had been struggling in recent games, but he bounced back with a vengeance, scoring a season-high 28 points. His shooting accuracy was on point, hitting six crucial three-pointers that kept the Rebels at bay. This performance was just one point shy of his career-best, proving that Rogers is capable of delivering when it matters most. The crowd roared every time he sank a shot, creating an electrifying atmosphere inside the arena. Rogers' resurgence wasn't just about personal redemption; it symbolized the team's ability to overcome adversity. After two subpar outings, he showed remarkable composure and determination. His contributions were pivotal in maintaining the Tigers' lead throughout the game. As the final buzzer sounded, it was clear that Rogers had reestablished himself as a key player for Memphis.

Moussa Cisse's Impactful Return Against Former Team

Moussa Cisse's return to action against his former team, Ole Miss, was nothing short of spectacular. He recorded his first double-double since March 15, 2023, with 13 points and 11 rebounds. Cisse's presence in the paint was felt early on, as he soared for an emphatic alley-oop dunk just 13 seconds into the game. This play set the tone for the evening, energizing both the players and the fans.Cisse's defensive prowess was equally impressive. He dominated the boards and provided solid rim protection, making life difficult for the Rebels' offense. His versatility allowed the Tigers to control the tempo of the game, especially in critical moments. The significance of his performance cannot be overstated, as it highlighted his growth and adaptability since joining Memphis.

PJ Haggerty's Steady Hand

PJ Haggerty, the leading scorer for the Tigers, added 17 points to the scoreboard. His consistency has been a cornerstone of the team's success this season. Haggerty's ability to find openings and make smart plays was evident throughout the match. In the first half alone, he combined with Rogers to contribute 21 points, helping Memphis build a substantial lead.Haggerty's leadership extended beyond scoring. He played a crucial role in orchestrating the offense, ensuring that the ball moved smoothly through the team. His decision-making under pressure was commendable, guiding the Tigers through several intense moments. As the team looks ahead to AAC play, Haggerty's steady presence will be invaluable in maintaining their momentum.

Turning Point: Second Half Surge

The second half saw the Tigers come out with renewed vigor, pushing their narrow halftime lead into a commanding advantage. Despite a late surge by Ole Miss, which cut the lead to 75-60, Rogers quickly silenced any hopes of a comeback with another clutch three-pointer. Dain Dainja followed suit with consecutive baskets, extending the lead to 16 points.A significant moment occurred when Ole Miss' Mikeal Brown-Jones was ejected for a flagrant 2 technical foul. This incident gave the Tigers two free throws, which they capitalized on to extend their lead further. The ejection also shifted the momentum entirely in Memphis' favor, as the Rebels struggled to regain their footing. By the end of the game, it was clear that the Tigers had weathered the storm and emerged victorious.

Building a Strong Résumé for March Madness

With this win, Memphis now boasts eight Quad 1 and Quad 2 victories, more than any other team in the country. This achievement is crucial for their NCAA Tournament aspirations, as it strengthens their case for a favorable seeding. The loss to Mississippi State last week had dented their momentum, but this victory against a ranked opponent has restored confidence within the team.Looking forward, the Tigers face a challenging schedule, including their upcoming AAC opener against FAU on Thursday. Each game presents an opportunity to add more quality wins to their résumé. The team's resilience and depth have been tested, and they have shown that they can rise to the occasion when it counts. As they continue their journey, the eyes of college basketball will undoubtedly be on Memphis.