East Carolina Aims to Upset Memphis Tigers
The East Carolina Pirates, with their own NCAA Tournament hopes dashed, have a chance to play spoiler against the Memphis Tigers on February 29th, 2024. While a conference title remains the only path to the big dance for the Pirates, they can disrupt the postseason plans of a Memphis team fighting for its own tournament life.
Memphis: Tournament Hopes Hanging in the Balance
The Tigers enter the game with a respectable 20-8 record and a NET ranking of 76. Their mixed quadrant record (3-3 Q1, 5-2 Q2, 4-2 Q3, 8-1 Q4) reflects a season of tough wins and unexpected losses. A decisive victory over East Carolina could bolster their resume, with their best win currently a close home victory against the Clemson Tigers.
Spoiler Alert: Can the Pirates Derail Memphis?
East Carolina will be looking to exploit any weaknesses in the Tigers’ game, playing with the freedom of having nothing to lose. This will be the sole regular-season matchup between the two teams, with a potential rematch looming only in the AAC tournament.
Model Prediction: Tigers Expected to Prevail
Our favors Memphis with a 76-65 win as East Carolina, playing on their home court, looks to turn this game into a much closer affair.
Key Questions:
- Can Memphis overcome the pressure of needing a win, or will nerves lead to a shaky performance?
- Will East Carolina’s spoiler mentality translate into an inspired performance?
- Can the Tigers dominate on the boards and limit the Pirates’ scoring opportunities?