Growth remains a priority as Texas A&M aims to slow down Memphis
The best isn’t good enough for Texas A&M.
The Aggies (6-3) turned in their best performance of the basketball season last Sunday in a 72-54 victory over Oregon State.
But they acknowledge the need to be even better on Saturday when they travel to face traditional powerhouse Memphis (8-3) at 6 p.m. CT at FedEx Forum.
“The environment we’re playing in, the talent we’re playing against, the pace that they play with will be unlike anything we have played thus far,” Texas A&M coach Buzz Williams said.
“From a pace standpoint, they’re almost like DePaul (which A&M defeated 82-66) on steroids. The environment in which we’re going to play is very SEC-like in regards to how a lot of teams in our league are supported at home.
“This will be the biggest test that we’ve had, and it will require us to be at our best to have a chance.”
Memphis, coached by former NBA star Penny Hardaway, has already won three out of four games against SEC competition.
The Tigers most recently fell 91-88 to Alabama last weekend. However, they have posted victories over SEC members Auburn, Ole Miss and Vanderbilt.
Guard Kendric Davis, a Houston product, averages 19.5 points and 4.0 rebounds to lead Memphis. He scored 30 points in the loss to Alabama. Forward DeAndre Williams, a 6-foot-9 senior, averages 14.4 points and 7.8 rebounds.
“Those two guys, for sure, are going to take a high volume of shots,” Buzz Williams said. “But those two guys also force you to make a lot of decisions on how you’re also going to help guard the ball. It’s hard to defend either of those guys one-on-one.”
Memphis is ranked 43rd in the nation in fastbreak points, so A&M’s aim is to slow down the Tigers. The Aggies hope they can be as successful in their game plan as they were against Oregon State.
Although Dexter Dennis scored 16 points to lead four players in double figures in that victory over Oregon State, the Aggies were arguably more impressive on the defensive end.
Continuing to play well on defense is vital. A&M has allowed at least 86 points in each of its three losses.
They accomplished most of their goals in the victory over Oregon State. They gave up few offensive rebounds, had just nine fouls, were sound in their 3-point defense, got to the bonus first and had a significant advantage in rebounds.
“I feel like we’ve had a lot of growth in the past weeks and past days,” senior guard Tyrece Redford said. “We’re just looking to grow.”
