The Wichita State Shockers are in Tennessee tonight, ready to take on the Memphis Tigers.
The Shockers have won their last two games, which happened to be their first two in the American Conference this season. They're 9-8 overall this season and sit one game behind Memphis ahead of tonight's contest. They'll look to improve upon a 2-2 road record.
Memphis is 13-5 this season, but just 3-2 in conference play so far. Their last game was a narrow win over Temple in Philadelphia. The Tigers are back home tonight, where they haven't lost all season.
This game is crucial for both teams if they want a shot at the American title this season. Let's see how these schools stack up ahead of their first meeting of the season.
Wichita State vs. Memphis Betting Odds
Odds are courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook
Wichita State vs. Memphis Match Details
Fixture: Wichita State Shockers @ Memphis Tigers
Date and Time: Thursday, January 19, 2023, 7:00 p.m. EST
Venue: FedExForum
Wichita State vs. Memphis Key Stats
Wichita State has not fared well against Memphis lately. The Tigers have won six of their last seven matchups between the schools. The Tigers have won the last four in Memphis by an average margin of 15.8 points in Memphis' favor.
Memphis plays at a high tempo, leading to a lot of scoring. They put up 78.6 points per game, 44th in the nation, on 46.8% shooting (64th). They allow 71.7 points per game, but opponents only shoot 38.7% against them, 15th nationally. Memphis averages 9.7 steals per game, 15th in the nation.
Wichita allows far fewer points, 62.4 per game, and has an incredible three-point defense that limits foes to 29.9% of triple (29th). They hold opponents to 37.7% shooting overall (ninth).
However, their offense is awful, only putting up 65.4 points per game, which is 323rd. They only hit 41.7% of their shots, 316th.
Wichita State vs. Memphis Betting Prediction
While the Memphis offense is way ahead of Wichita's, I could easily see this game being a defensive struggle. Wichita's offense will have their hands full all night, but their defense should be able to hold its own and suppress Memphis' attack. I think this game goes under the total.