Preview: Memphis Tigers at Wichita State Shockers

WICHITA, Kan. (Interstat) — Two American Athletic Conference teams heading in opposite directions will meet Saturday when the Wichita State Shockers host the Memphis Tigers at Charles Koch Arena.

The Shockers (12-8, 4-3 AAC) have won three of their last four, including an 86-85 overtime thriller at South Florida and a 77-60 home victory over East Carolina on Wednesday. They are 9-2 at home this season.

Conversely, the Tigers (9-9, 3-4) are looking to halt a slide after a decisive 83-66 road loss at Tulsa on Wednesday. Memphis has struggled for consistency, alternating wins and losses over its past six games.

The matchup features a compelling duel at guard. Wichita State is powered by Kenyon Giles, who is averaging 25.3 points over his last four games. He exploded for 33 points against North Texas on Jan. 11 and followed with 27 in the win over East Carolina.

Memphis will counter with Ashton Hardaway, who led the Tigers with 18 points in the loss to Tulsa. The sophomore forward has scored in double figures in three of his last seven outings.

Wichita State’s conference success has been fueled by its offense, averaging 79.6 points in AAC play. Memphis has relied more on defense, holding three of its last five opponents under 70 points, but surrendering 89 and 83 in its two most recent losses.

The Shockers won last season’s only meeting, 85-65, in Wichita on Feb. 15. These teams are scheduled to meet again in Memphis on Feb. 26.

Saturday’s contest is pivotal for conference positioning. A win would solidify Wichita State’s place in the upper tier of the AAC, while Memphis seeks a road victory to climb back to .500 in league play.

Tipoff is set for 3 p.m. CST.