Preview: Memphis Tigers at North Texas Mean Green

DENTON, Texas (Interstat) — The North Texas Mean Green look to continue their positive start to American Athletic Conference play when they host the struggling Memphis Tigers in a women’s basketball matchup Tuesday night.

The game at North Texas Coliseum pits two teams trending in opposite directions. North Texas (9-7 overall) has won three of its last four, including a 59-53 road victory at Tulane on Saturday. Memphis (7-10) has lost three of its last four, most recently falling 90-81 to South Florida at home.

The Mean Green have been bolstered by the consistent interior presence of forward Megan Nestor. She is coming off a double-double with 10 points and 14 rebounds against Tulane and has scored in double figures in five of her last six contests. Her performance on the boards will be key against a Memphis team that can be vulnerable inside.

The Tigers will rely heavily on the dynamic play of guard Daejah Richmond to snap their skid. Richmond is averaging 18.4 points over her last five games, highlighted by a 24-point, 7-rebound, 6-assist effort in the loss to South Florida. When she scores 20 or more points this season, Memphis is 4-2.

North Texas has found success with defense, holding opponents to an average of 58.3 points in its nine wins. Memphis, conversely, has allowed 80.3 points per game in its 10 losses. Containing Richmond and forcing other Tigers to beat them will be the defensive focus for the Mean Green.

Memphis leads the all-time series 3-1, but North Texas won the most recent meeting 72-68 last February. With both teams navigating the early conference schedule, this contest offers North Texas a chance to solidify its standing and Memphis an opportunity to regain momentum on the road.

Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. CST.