Coach Cal, Memphis survive and advance
At this time of season, it is all about the phrase, "survive and advance"!
Memphis showed that in its opening round win over Cal State-Northridge. The Tigers have a tendency to look at the opponent's jersey and play to the level of the competition.
Those looking at their morning paper would think it was an easy win, 81-70. My friends, Memphis had a battle and was down by three with under 10 minutes to play. John Calipari's team broke open a close contest with a late run and this kind of game may help the Tigers in the long run.
Roburt Sallie was the star of stars for the Tigers, scoring a career-high 35 points. Sallie hit 10-of-15 trifectas while playing 36 minutes coming off the bench. Pretty impressive for a guy who averaged 4.5 points a game this season. He saved Memphis by coming through when he was needed.
Memphis was bothered by the Matadors' zone defense and inside players Robert Dozier and Shawn Taggert were held in check, combining for just 14 points. Dozier, Taggert and Tyreke Evans all had two fouls within the first 10 minutes, so Calipari's bench was tested and came through with 38 points.
Evans (15) and Antonio Anderson (13) though as the Tigers prevailed despite missing nine of its 21 free throw attempts.
I am sure Mr. Calipari breathed a sigh of relief after getting to the winner's circle. It was a tougher game than most of the experts expected, but as Jimmy V. said, SURVIVE AND ADVANCE.
