Tulane Looks to Snap Skid Against Surging Memphis in AAC Clash

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (Interstat) — Two American Athletic Conference teams heading in opposite directions meet Sunday when the Tulane Green Wave visit the Memphis Tigers at FedExForum.

Tulane (12-9) arrives seeking to halt a four-game losing streak, most recently a 97-83 home loss to South Florida on Wednesday. The Green Wave have struggled defensively during the skid, allowing an average of 82.5 points per game.

Memphis (10-10), meanwhile, has won three of its last four, including a dominant 92-65 victory over Florida Atlantic on Thursday. The Tigers have found a rhythm at home, where they are 8-3 this season.

A key matchup will feature Tulane forward Luke Rasmussen against Memphis guard Dug McDaniel. Rasmussen is coming off a 38-minute effort against USF, posting 11 points, two assists and two blocks. His consistency, however, has wavered; he scored just eight points in six minutes in a loss at Charlotte on Jan. 23.

McDaniel has been the engine for Memphis, averaging 16.3 points and 4.6 assists over his last seven games. He exploded for 23 points and six assists in the win over FAU, demonstrating the scoring punch the Tigers need from their lead guard.

Tulane’s recent woes include a 1-5 record in January against AAC opponents. Beyond Rasmussen, production has been sporadic. Asher Woods and Tyler Ringgold each added 14 points in the loss to USF, but the Green Wave will need a more sustained team effort to compete on the road.

Memphis has shown a Jekyll-and-Hyde tendency, following its 29-point win with a 15-point road loss at Wichita State just five days prior. Their success Sunday likely hinges on which version of the Tigers appears and if they can build on their recent home-court momentum.

This game represents a critical pivot point for both squads in the conference standings. Tulane aims to salvage its January slide, while Memphis looks to climb above .500 and solidify its position in the AAC race.

Tip-off is scheduled for Sunday afternoon. Tulane’s next game is at home against Wichita State on Feb. 8. Memphis travels to face UAB on Thursday.