Is Memphis basketball’s 2024-25 non-conference schedule its strongest ever? A breakdown

There is more than one way to achieve NET glory.

Teams can either schedule a string of cupcake opponents and bank on the metrics rewarding them for sheer domination. Or, teams can load up on the stiffest competition they can find and prove their worth that way.

Memphis basketball coach Penny Hardaway, as he has been wont to do, has opted for the latter again. Each of the past three seasons, his teams have ranked in the top 60 in the nation in non-conference strength of schedule. The Tigers will play 13 non-conference games, and all but one have been reported. Considering the 12 known opponents on the 2024-25 docket finished last season in the top 160 in the NET, this could be the most daunting slate yet − even if the 13th game is against Alabama State, Ohio University or Central Arkansas.

Here is a look at each challenge Memphis will face before AAC play begins (tip-off times and some dates have not been announced).

Missouri

When: Nov. 4

Where: FedExForum

In 2023-24: Misery. Dennis Gates’ team won just eight games (going 0-fer in the SEC) and finished the season No. 158 in the NET − the worst NET of any of Memphis’ known opponents this season.

2024-25 outlook: So much better. Mizzou added key transfers like Duke’s Mark Mitchell and Iowa’s Tony Perkins. Gates also returns Tamar Bates and Caleb Grill (among others). CBS Sports’ Jerry Palm has Mizzou as the last team in the NCAA tournament field in his most recent bracketology.

UNLV

When: TBA

Where: Thomas & Mack Center (Las Vegas)

In 2023-24: Not bad. The Runnin’ Rebels were 21-13 and reached the third round of the NIT (the program’s first postseason appearance since 2013) before bowing out versus Seton Hall. They finished 76th in the NET, thanks in large part to five Quad 1 wins.

2024-25 outlook: Tough to say. Kevin Kruger is back for his fourth season as coach. He returns leading scorer (Dedan Thomas, although, he has missed most of the summer nursing an injury) and a few contributors. He brought in Boise State transfer Jace…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/memphis-basketballs-2024-25-non-100606087.html

Author : The Commercial Appeal

Publish date : 2024-08-05 10:06:06

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