In front of 12,358 screaming fans wearing red, UC put on a show on national television. Mick Cronin kept his promise and addressed the crowd before the game. Memphis didn’t stand a chance. UC put up 34 points in the first half, and controlled the second half despite the Tigers’ full court press.
UC shot 50% from the field. Octavius Ellis led the way again with 19 points and 11 boards. Ellis grew up in Memphis and wanted to play there as a kid. I am sure it felt great to have a big day, including an alley-oop dunk. Cobb also had another big day with 16 points.
What a Senior Day it was for Jermaine Sanders who had 12 points, 4 boards, and 3 assists, including this beaut.
The Cats out-rebounded Memphis 33-22, which was a huge advantage considering the Tigers shot the ball 48.1%, and UC lost the turnover battle 12-9 and points in the paint 38-24.
This win clinched the 3 seed for UC in the AAC tournament, and a first round bye. On Friday at 9 pm ET they will face the winner of the Thursday game between USF and UConn. In other words, the Bearcats will play UConn Friday night in Hartford, Connecticut.
The Cats have now won 5 in a row. Watch out.
By Andy Smith