University of Memphis Athletics
Lady Tigers Drop Thanksgiving Classic Opener
Nov 25, 2005 | Women's Basketball
Nov. 25, 2005
Memphis, Tenn. - The University of Memphis women's basketball team shot just 21.9 percent and scored 17 first half points in a 74-49 loss to Austin Peay (1-1) in the opening game of the Lady Tiger Thanksgiving Classic, Friday. The loss drops Memphis to 0-3 on the season despite a career-high 26 points and 13 rebounds from freshman Paris Leonard. Leonard scored four points in the opening half and was one of three Lady Tigers who battled in the second half.
"Gresh Gorman, Devin Necaise and Paris Leonard were the only ones who came out and had any fight in the second half, " Head Coach Blair Savage said. "We just have to learn to fight."
Senior Tamika Butler came out and scored Memphis' first seven points before Austin Peay used an 11-1 run to pull ahead 18-8 with 10:59 remaining in the game.
The Lady Tigers scored just six field goals in the opening half, with Memphis' 17 first half points serving as the lowest scoring output for a team in a half in tournament history. Memphis trailed 34-17 at halftime, a lead Austin Peay quickly grew to 24 with a 7-0 run to open the half before Leonard grabbed an offensive board and knocked down one of two free-throws to snap the Lady Gov run.
Leonard would continue attacking and was one of just three Lady Tigers who scored a field goal in the second half. Leonard scored eight of Memphis' 10 second half field goals, with juniors Devin Necaise and Ashley Howard each adding one in the loss.
Amber Bacon led Austin Peay with 15 points, while Ashley Haynes added a double-double of 14 points and 16 rebounds.
Memphis will now play in the 5 p.m. consolation game against either Belmont or Clemson. The championship game will be played 30 minutes following the completion of the consolation game.
