Memphis University Women’s Basketball Falls to UTSA

Women basketball players competing on the court

News Summary

In a challenging game, the Memphis women’s basketball team faced UTSA, ultimately losing 80-61. Despite an early lead, Memphis struggled to maintain momentum, especially after key player DeeDee Hagemann was sidelined. The defeat drops Memphis to a 6-18 overall record, intensifying their focus as they prepare for their next match against UAB. UTSA, now 22-3, continues to thrive in the AAC as they gear up for their upcoming games, showcasing the fierce competition of women’s collegiate basketball.

Memphis Struggles Against UTSA in Tough Showdown

Memphis, February 15, 2025 – It was a bittersweet evening at the Convocation Center as the Memphis women’s basketball team faced off against the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). After displaying some promising moments, the Tigers ultimately fell short, losing the match 80-61. This defeat now puts Memphis at a record of 6-18 overall and drops them to 4-9 in the American Athletic Conference (AAC).

A Strong Start, but a Sudden Shift

The game began with intensity, as both teams displayed strong defensive tactics and hustle on the court. The first quarter ended in a tie, showing promise for an exciting matchup. As the teams took to the floor for the second quarter, Memphis found a spark, going on a 9-0 run that saw Tamya Smith make five consecutive points. This surge helped Memphis establish a solid 33-21 lead, much to the delight of the home crowd.

However, the joy was brief. UTSA clawed back into the game thanks, in part, to their impressive three-point shooting. They wrapped up the second quarter trailing narrowly at 40-38 and carried the momentum into the second half.

Fatigue Takes Its Toll

Coming into the third quarter, UTSA capitalized on Memphis’s fatigue, likely a result of their challenging road trip. The Roadrunners launched a damaging 9-2 run that pushed them into a leading position. Memphis struggled to keep up, especially after losing their key player DeeDee Hagemann, which prompted Tanyuel Welch to step up and take on the point guard role. Welch put forth a commendable effort, scoring 16 points while also grabbing nine rebounds and dishing out five assists.

Running Away with the Game

The final quarter was a rough one for the Tigers, as UTSA dominated with an electrifying 17-2 run. It became apparent that Memphis was losing grip, struggling both on the offensive and defensive ends. They were unable to convert plays and were further hampered by UTSA’s ability to collect a whopping 18 offensive rebounds, converting those into a staggering 25 second-chance points.

For UTSA, Nina De Leon Negron led the charge, contributing 16 points to the scoreline, while Aysia Proctor was close behind with 15 points. Their performance showcased both depth and adaptability, elements that head coach Karen Aston noted as essential for UTSA’s growth this season.

Looking Ahead

Looking forward, Memphis is set to regroup and return home to face UAB on February 19, 2025, at Elma Roane Fieldhouse at 7:00 p.m. The team will aim to learn from this setback and embrace the support of the home crowd. Meanwhile, UTSA, now boasting a record of 22-3 and an impressive 13-1 in AAC play, will gear up to travel to Houston for their next match against Rice on February 22, 2025, at 4 p.m., aiming for a strong post-season push.

This matchup serves as a reminder of the competitive spirit in women’s collegiate basketball, where each game provides a chance for both teams to learn and grow. As Memphis looks to bounce back, fans will eagerly await the next chapter for their Tigers.