Temple Bounces Back Against Memphis as New Faces Shine

Written By: Liam Andell

Photo Courtesy of: OwlSports.com

The Owls’ offense was in full effect against Memphis, putting up a season-high in points as they won 89-66

The victory snaps the Owls’ two-game skid as they improve to 10-7 in conference play, and Memphis continues to struggle as they dropped their sixth straight in February and have now fallen to 2-10.

This was a game full of accomplishments for the Owls during their senior day game, but it wasn’t who you’d expect as senior Mia Davis was a bit of a non-factor with nine points and four rebounds on 32 minutes played.

“We had three scorers in double figures outside of her (Mia Davis), I don’t think we’ve ever done that”

Luckily for the Owls, they didn’t need much from Davis as it was Alexa Williamson and Jasha Clinton who lead the charge for the Owls in this one.

Williamson stole the show putting up a career-high 29 points on 11/16 shooting.  She usually does her work down in the low post, and that’s precisely where she dominated in this game, earning ten attempts at the free-throw line.  While her points helped boost this team, we can not forget about her contribution on the defensive end as she recorded a career-high with four steals.

“We really emphasized trying to take the ball out of the guards’ hands,” said coach Cardoza. “We were super aggressive on the defensive side, which led to easy buckets for us.”

The Owls certainly did take advantage of their defensive intensity scoring 29 points off of turnovers.  Forcing ten more turnovers than Memphis was a contributing factor to the Owls win and a surprise altogether as the Owls hold a -1.95 turnover margin per game this season.

Jasha Clinton found herself scoring points per usual as she dropped in 21.  The assists were where Jasha surprised people, dishing out a career-best 11 assists on the day.  She only averages 3.9 on the season but excelled and put up the double-double.

Another standout star for the Owls in this one was senior guard Emani Mayo.  Mayo dropped in a season-high 14 points to go along with four assists and three steals.  Mayo seemed to do it all, and coach Cardoza is noticing.

“She’s playing just playing with a lot of confidence right now,” said coach Cardoza.  “Even the way she talks, she’s walking around feeling really confident about herself, and it’s showing on the basketball court.”

Temple had impressive showings on both sides of the court, shooting 35 of 70 from the field and forcing 20 Memphis turnovers.

The Owls look to continue their all-around play with a rematch against Memphis back at Pearson McGonigle Hall tomorrow for their regular-season finale. Once the game is over, Temple will be heading off to Texas for the AAC tournament.  Tip-off is slated for noon and can be viewed on ESPN+.