Memphis Tigers Prepare for Key Matchup Against South Florida Bulls Thursday Night

TAMPA, Fla. – The No. 14 Memphis Tigers (20-4, 10-1 AAC) face off against the South Florida Bulls (12-12, 5-6 AAC) on Thursday at 8 p.m. at the Yuengling Center. This marks Memphis’ first visit to Tampa since defeating USF 99-81 on Feb. 8, 2023. The Tigers, coming off a victory against Temple, aim to maintain their momentum despite uncertainty surrounding key player Tyrese Hunter‘s availability due to a knee injury.

Memphis, ranked among the top five seeds in the latest CBS Sports and ESPN bracketology projections, is looking to solidify its NCAA Tournament position. The Tigers cannot afford another loss against a lower-ranked opponent like the Bulls, who are No. 198 in the NCAA Evaluation Tool (NET) and have already posed challenges, having defeated Memphis in last season’s only matchup despite being down by 20 points in the second half.

Advanced analytics by Bart Torvik also predict Memphis as a No. 10 seed in March, highlighting the importance of Thursday’s game. The Tigers need to avoid dropping games against Quad 3 opponents, given their previous losses to Arkansas State and Temple.

“Now, it’s next game,” said Memphis forward Dain Dainja, reflecting the team’s focus for the upcoming challenge.

Hunter’s status remains a game-time decision, after he was sidelined minutes before the Temple game. The 6-foot guard has maintained consistent contributions with an average of 14.5 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game this season. Memphis coach Penny Hardaway expressed concern over Hunter’s health during a recent radio show, emphasizing the importance of not risking further injury.

In Hunter’s absence against Temple, Dante Harris stepped up significantly, scoring 14 points in an efficient performance as a midseason transfer. Hardaway praised Harris’ adaptability and experience, stating, “He understands how to play and the rest of the team rallied around him.”

As for South Florida, the team is coping with recent challenges, including the impact of interim coach Ben Fletcher following the tragic passing of Amir Abdur-Rahim. The Bulls have seen significant roster changes, losing key players to the transfer portal last offseason. Currently, Jayden Reid leads the Bulls, averaging 12.1 points and showcasing his developing skill set.

The Bulls also feature 6-foot-11 forward Jamille Reynolds, a Cincinnati transfer with six double-doubles this season, and guard Kobe Knox, who is recovering from an ankle injury. South Florida ranks third in the AAC for perimeter defense, a potential factor against Memphis’ top-ranked 3-point shooting prowess.

Memphis comes into this game riding an eight-game winning streak and is expected to prevail, but both teams’ performances will be crucial in shaping their postseason aspirations. The projected outcome favors the Tigers, who aim to overcome USF and secure an important victory for their March Madness hopes.