Memphis heads into its next American Athletic Conference Tournament test with momentum—and a quick turnaround—after an explosive opening-round win.
Memphis Rides Offensive Surge Into Matchup vs. UAB
The No. 5-seeded Tigers will face No. 4 UAB in the double-elimination portion of the bracket on Thursday, with first pitch scheduled for approximately 47 minutes after the conclusion of the Rice vs. Wichita State game (1 p.m. CT start). With a win, Memphis moves deeper into the bracket. With a loss, the path becomes significantly more difficult.
Memphis earned its spot in this matchup by powering past No. 8 Charlotte 13-9 in Wednesday’s opener. The Tigers set the tone immediately, erupting for five runs in the first inning and eventually building a 12-1 lead behind a relentless offensive attack.
Michael Gupton led the charge with two home runs, while Freddy Rodriguez delivered a perfect 4-for-4 performance at the plate, continuing his standout season. Memphis showcased its depth as well, with eight different players driving in runs and the lineup consistently applying pressure with both power and speed.
While Charlotte mounted a late rally with seven runs across the seventh and eighth innings, Memphis responded at key moments—including Gupton’s second home run—to maintain control and close out the win. That performance highlighted exactly what Memphis can be at its best: explosive, aggressive, and difficult to contain.
Now, the challenge shifts to UAB.
The Blazers enter as the No. 4 seed with a key advantage—rest. Unlike Memphis, which had to navigate a high-intensity, nine-inning game, UAB will be opening its tournament run with a fresh pitching staff and a fully available bullpen.
That contrast could play a major role, especially if Memphis is forced to rely on bullpen depth after Will Howell’s 6.1-inning outing in the opener. Managing innings and limiting late-game damage will be critical after allowing Charlotte back into the game.
For Memphis, the formula remains clear.
The Tigers must continue to lean on their offensive identity, which has carried them throughout the season. Their ability to create runs through stolen bases, timely hitting, and lineup depth makes them one of the more unpredictable teams in the field. Rodriguez’s presence at the top of the lineup and Gupton’s power in the middle will once again be central to that approach.
If Memphis can replicate its early-game success and avoid letting UAB hang around, it has the firepower to pull off another win and gain a stronger foothold in the bracket. But against a rested, higher-seeded opponent, the margin for error will be smaller.
Thursday’s matchup presents a clear opportunity—and a clear test. Memphis has already shown it can erupt offensively. Now it must prove it can sustain that level against fresher arms with more at stake.
