PJ Haggerty Dominates Second Half to Propel Memphis to Victory
- Memphis rallied from a 10-point halftime deficit to win the season opener against Missouri.
- PJ Haggerty scored 22 out of his 25 points in the second half, significantly impacting the game.
- The win reflects Memphis's strong adaptation following a major roster overhaul and extends their unbeaten streak in season openers.
On November 04, 2024, in Memphis, Tennessee, PJ Haggerty played a crucial role in leading the Memphis Tigers to an 83-75 win over the Missouri Tigers in their season opener. The Tigers faced a 10-point deficit by halftime but demonstrated remarkable resilience in the second half, shooting 58% from the field and converting 85% of their free throws. Haggerty scored 22 of his total 25 points during this period, marking a significant shift in momentum. Tyrese Hunter and Moussa Cisse contributed 14 points each, with both players assisting in the scoring surge that allowed Memphis to gain a lead. Missouri initially had strong performances, with Anthony Robinson II leading their scoring efforts at 16 points. However, they struggled from the free-throw line, making only 15 of 23 attempts, while Memphis excelled with 17 of 20. Memphis's roster faced significant changes, with a mere 8% of its scoring returning from the previous season after losing 14 players. The team integrated 11 new transfers to strengthen their lineup, including Haggerty and others from various universities. As the game progressed, Memphis's defense tightened, contributing to their comeback. The victory not only showcased Memphis's potential for the season but also extended their streak of wins in season openers to seven, reflecting their resilience and ability to adapt in high-pressure situations.