MEMPHIS, Tenn. – The University of San Francisco men’s basketball team had its first road game of the season on Saturday, facing off against Memphis. Despite a strong effort in the second half, the Dons fell short, losing 76-70 at FedEx Forum.
The game kicked off with both teams trading points early on. Memphis led by a slim margin, 15-13, with Mookie Cook scoring seven of USF’s first 13 points. However, the Tigers ended the first half with a strong push, outscoring the Dons 21-9 in the closing minutes, taking a commanding 36-22 lead into halftime.
In the second half, Memphis built its lead to 23 points, reaching 48-25. But the Dons didn’t give up. They launched a comeback, cutting the deficit to just six points at 54-48, thanks in part to an and-one by David Fuchs and a fast break layup from Veniamin Abosi.
Memphis quickly responded with a scoring run, pushing the lead back to double digits. Still, San Francisco held their ground defensively, limiting Memphis to only two points over a crucial stretch. With three-pointers from Cook and Abosi, the Dons drew closer, reducing the gap to four points at 66-62 in the final minutes.
In the end, Memphis sealed the game, hitting 10 points down the stretch that kept the Dons at bay.
Standout Players:
- Mookie Cook shined, scoring a game-high 18 points while grabbing seven rebounds and making three steals.
- Tyrone Riley IV also had a solid performance with 15 points, shooting well from three-point range.
- David Fuchs added 12 points, showing his impact off the bench with a strong plus-minus rating.
USF demonstrated resilience, particularly in the second half, where they shot an impressive 56% from the floor. This fighting spirit is essential for future games, especially as they return home for a three-game homestand, starting against Portland State on November 12.
This match showcases a trend in college basketball: teams that adapt and push through difficulties often find success. In a recent NCAA survey, over 70% of coaches emphasized the importance of resilience in their teams, a trait the Dons are clearly working to cultivate.
As the season unfolds, it’ll be interesting to see how San Francisco balances their strategic plays with the need for adaptability, a skill that could make or break their chances in a competitive league.
