Memphis Tigers' Offensive Efficiency
Memphis boasts one of the most efficient offenses in the nation, putting up an impressive 118.1 points per 100 possessions. This offensive prowess was on full display last season when they defeated Virginia 77 - 54 at FedExForum, which turned out to be Tony Bennett's final season as the Cavaliers' coach. "They started off really well. Then, they just started losing recently," said Hardaway. "They're playing extremely hard. It's a team that has a lot of pride. It's a revenge game for the guys that were here last year. Every game is tough, especially against a storied program like Virginia."The Tigers' ability to score at a high rate makes them a formidable opponent. Their players, such as PJ Haggerty, have been key contributors. In the current game, Haggerty has scored 11 second-half points to help Memphis close the gap against Virginia. With 11:57 remaining, the Tigers lead the Cavaliers 41 - 39.
Virginia's Home Court Advantage
The Cavaliers are 5 - 0 at home this season and their best win at John Paul Jones Arena came last week against Bethune - Cookman, which was 290th in KenPom entering Tuesday. Their performance at home has been solid, with a shooting percentage of 39% in the first half. However, Memphis is not making it easy, hitting just 29% of its shots. The difference in the game so far has been Memphis' turnovers (seven) and what the Cavaliers have done with them (14 points off turnovers). Dain Dainja has 9 points and 6 rebounds in the first half for Memphis.Virginia's home court advantage gives them an edge, but Memphis is fighting back. The intensity of the game is palpable as both teams battle it out on the court.
Starting Lineups and Game Details
Penny Hardaway will stick with his usual starting lineup: Tyrese Hunter, PJ Haggerty, Colby Rogers, Nicholas Jourdain and Moussa Cisse. Meanwhile, the Hoos will roll out Isaac McKneely, Dai Dai Ames, Elijah Saunders, Andrew Rohde and Jacob Cofie.The game is set to take place on Wednesday, Dec. 18, at 6 p.m. CT at John Paul Jones Arena in Charlottesville, Virginia. It will be televised on ESPN2 with Kevin Brown as the play - by - play commentator and Chris Spatola as the color analyst. Streaming will be available on ESPN+, and the radio call will be on 98.9 - FM The Roar with Dave Woloshin as the play - by - play commentator and Matt Dillon as the color analyst.
Game Predictions and Betting Odds
Penny Hardaway is confident that his Tigers will bring full energy and effort to every game, and that includes this match against the Cavaliers. Because of this, he believes Memphis will emerge victorious.According to the game lines and odds from BetMGM as of Tuesday, the spread is Memphis - 4.5, the over/under is 130.5, and the moneyline is Memphis - 200, Virginia +165. These odds reflect the expectations and potential outcomes of the game.
Injury Updates
Memphis guard Tyrese Hunter is still dealing with a nagging knee injury but has not missed any game time yet. Virginia guard Dai Dai Ames (ankle) did not play against Bethune Cookman. Interim coach Ron Sanchez did not provide a specific timeline for his return but did not think the injury was "long - term." Guard Christian Bliss, who has not yet played this season, is considered "day - to - day."The injury situation adds an element of uncertainty to the game, but both teams will be looking to overcome any obstacles and give their best performance.
Upcoming Schedules
Memphis has an upcoming schedule with tipoff times not yet set (unless otherwise noted). On Dec. 21, they will face Mississippi State at 11:30 a.m. on CBS at FedExForum. On Dec. 28, they will play against Ole Miss at 1 p.m. on ESPN2 at FedExForum. On Jan. 2, they will travel to FAU and play at 6 p.m. on ESPN2 at Eleanor P. Baldwin Arena. On Jan. 5, they will host North Texas at 4 p.m. on ESPN or ESPN2 at FedExForum. And on Jan. 11, they will face East Carolina at 1 p.m. on ESPN+ at FedExForum.Virginia also has an upcoming schedule with all times in central time. On Dec. 22, they will play against American at 1 p.m. on ACC Network. On Dec. 31, they will face NC State at 11 a.m. on ESPN2. On Jan. 4, they will host Louisville at 3 p.m. on ACC Network. On Jan. 8, they will travel to Cal at 10 p.m. on ESPN2 or ESPNU. And on Jan. 11, they will play at Stanford at 3 p.m. on ESPN2 or ESPNU.