Start spreading the news -- the Tigers are leaving on Monday for the National Invitation Tournament semifinals.
Last night, the University of Memphis (20-14) men's basketball team pummeled the New Mexico Lobos (21-13) by a score of 81-63.
Before of a crowd of over 15,000 fans, the Tigers clinched their spot, and are headed to New York City.
Back when the Tigers started their season with a 4-8 record, no one would have dreamed they would reach the 20-win mark, a feat unmatched since the 1995-96 season.
It looks as if head coach John Calipari is getting his wish -- the best basketball to be played is in March.
"What I'm really pleased with is I could just see them coming together and playing off one another," Calipari said.
Once again, the Tigers hit the ground running. They took the lead five minutes into the first half and never looked back.
The Tigers came into the contest with a distinct advantage in height over the Lobos, causing the Lobos frustration on both ends of the court.
The Lobos defense tried to shut down the big men, but in turn committed several fouls in their frustration.
Offensively they were no match for U of M's height and strength, especially on the boards.
The contest remained fairly close throughout the first half.
Memphis's defense did well in preventing the Lobos strong guards from attempting any perimeter shots, but the New Mexico team penetrated well and scored most of their first half field goals in the paint.
It was all the Lobos could do to cling to their 39-30 half time deficit.
When the Tigers came out for the second half it was show time and despite a meager attempt at a comeback by the Lobos five minutes into the period, the Tigers just kept pulling away.
Eric Chatfield of the Lobos lead all players scoring 17.
Team play once again was key in the Tiger win, with five players scoring in double figures.
Sophomore Earl Barron and junior Kelly Wise led the way for the Tigers, both recording double-doubles.
Barron scored 16 points and snagged 12 boards, while Wise pumped in 16 points and grabbed 14 boards.
Senior Marcus Moody poured in 12 points and dished out three assists.
The Cinderella story, however, is senior Shamel Jones. Jones will be finishing his college career in his hometown, New York City.
"Shamel really wants to get home," Barron said, "so we got the win for him."
"I don't know what's going to happen in New York, but I know this team is going to come out high and let it fly," Calipari said. "If you're going to go to New York, you might as well bring a trophy back."
The Tigers take on Tulsa Tuesday night at Madison Square Garden.
