Memphis Women's Basketball dawned purple jerseys for their home game against Charlotte, paying homage to the legendary Pat Summit and the fight against Alzheimer's disease. The Tigers would end up falling short in this game 67-59 behind a monster first quarter by the 49ers.
Despite the opening period not doing Memphis any favors, they found their way back into the game by slowly chipping away at the lead at the free throw line, where they shot at a phenomenal 16-18 clip. The lead was as low as two down the stretch, but a shooting foul and technical foul by Alasia Smith gave Charlotte enough of a cushion to come out on top.
The problem was everything that wasn't at the line offensively. The Tigers' struggles on the glass and the socreboard can be explained by the fact that they shot an abysmal 29% from the field, even though Alasia Smith ended with another double-double and three other Tigers scored in double digits.
Even with the offense sputtering like it did, Memphis is as solid as ever on the defensive side of the ball. They racked up 14 combined steals and blocks, which is the fifth game in a row they've had more than 10. The Tigers also forced 17 turnovers and held Charlotte to 3-14 shooting from three.
This loss kills a lot of the momentum Memphis wanted to generate through the AAC slate. Even though the season isn't over by any means, being guarenteed a sub .500 record in Januray isn't what most had in mind for the injury ravaged Tigers.
Memphis wraps up their two game homestand against ECU on Feb. 1 at 2:00 PM.
