Memphis leaned on defense and a deep-scoring bench to beat Little Rock, 62-48, and open the season 3-0 for the first time since 2004-05. Tamya Smith led all scorers with 16 points, while Ainaya Williams added 10 rebounds and five blocks. The win also gives first-year coach Hana Haden three straight victories to start her Memphis tenure.

By the Numbers
  • Memphis held Little Rock to 28.1% shooting from the field.
  • The Tigers’ bench outscored Little Rock’s, 30-4.
  • Smith scored 16 points on 6-of-7 shooting; Tierney Kelsey added 14 points.
  • Williams recorded 10 rebounds and five blocks.
Yes, But

Memphis’ offense stalled in the second quarter, managing just two field goals, but its defense held Little Rock to five points in the period and preserved a 10-point halftime lead.

What’s Next

Memphis hosts Alabama on Thursday, Nov. 12, at 6 p.m. The game will stream on ESPN+.

Bottom Line

Memphis is off to a historic start, with defense and bench production giving the Tigers a strong foundation ahead of a tougher test against Alabama.