Joseph Pinion dominates as Arkansas State upsets No. 16 Memphis

In a notable college basketball matchup held in Memphis, Tennessee, Arkansas State achieved a significant victory over No. 16 Memphis on December 8, 2024, with a final score of 85-72. The Red Wolves were powered by Joseph Pinion, who contributed 22 points and eight rebounds to secure the team's triumph. The game marked Arkansas State's first victory over a ranked opponent in over three decades, the prior one being against then-No. 21 New Orleans in 1991. This performance not only showcased their growth as a team but also highlighted the players' resilience in facing a highly regarded opponent. During the course of the game, Arkansas State established a formidable lead early on, particularly in the first half, where they were able to stretch their advantage to 18 points. This lead was built upon strong shooting from beyond the arc, with the Red Wolves converting on several key three-pointers, specifically hitting 7 of 18 attempts. Dyondre Dominguez also had a strong performance, adding 19 points to the score, while Taryn Todd contributed 17 points. The team held onto their lead despite moments when Memphis attempted to close the gap. Memphis struggled in the first half, facing shooting challenges that saw them fall below 20% late in that period. They attempted to respond with a more aggressive defense and managed to cut the Arkansas State lead down to single digits at times. Nonetheless, the Red Wolves consistently found ways to respond and maintain their advantage, demonstrating their determination to break a seven-game losing streak against Memphis. Although PJ Haggerty led the Tigers with 29 points, Memphis could not recover from the deficit created early in the game. This victory resonates significantly for Arkansas State, placing them on a positive trajectory as they are currently enjoying a two-game winning streak. The win also serves as a statement to the college basketball world about their competitiveness. Looking ahead, Arkansas State is scheduled to host UT-Arlington in their next game, while Memphis will travel to face Clemson. This result not only boosts Arkansas State's confidence but also reflects the shifting dynamics in college basketball, where underdogs can emerge victorious against ranked teams.