Memphis defeats Michigan State and reaches Maui Invitational final

In an exciting basketball match held on November 26, 2024, Memphis defeated Michigan State with a score of 71-63, securing their place in the Maui Invitational finals. This game took place shortly after Memphis's thrilling 99-97 overtime victory against the second-ranked UConn, where Tyrese Hunter made a significant impact by scoring 23 points in the recent game and contributing heavily in their previous win. His teammate PJ Haggerty also had a remarkable performance adding 16 points and nine rebounds. The Tigers demonstrated a strong offensive strategy, shooting 47% overall, including 35% from beyond the arc. Michigan State struggled with turnovers, giving up 22 points off 13 turnovers, and despite cutting a 15-point deficit down to seven at one point, they could not secure the lead. Jase Richardson led the Spartans with 18 points, but the team could not overcome their opponents’ defense, which included a key four-point play by Hunter late in the game. This victory propels Memphis to face either the fourth-ranked Auburn or the twelfth-ranked North Carolina in the finals of the Maui Invitational, highlighting their strong start to the season with a 6-0 record. The match was marked by Memphis's strong shooting early on, and they built a lead that they maintained throughout the game. With consistent shooting from Hunter, especially on three-pointers, the team managed to establish a commanding presence on the court. Hunter’s performance continued to shine as he previously made seven 3-pointers in the game against UConn, indicating a hot streak that he carried into this matchup. Looking ahead, Memphis's strong performances suggest they are becoming a formidable contender in college basketball, especially considering the depth of talent with players like Colby Rogers, who also contributed to the team's efforts. As the season progresses, their ability to manage turnovers and sustain efforts across multiple games will be critical for the ongoing success of the Tigers. The outcome of the Maui Invitational is significant as it can set the tone for Memphis's performance in the remainder of the season as they face other ranked teams.