The freshman guard has not played since Jan. 27 because of a back issue.

Something to be wary of: The Broncos might not have the most prolific offense. But they held one opponent to 37 points this season.

It’s the young and fast Memphis Tigers vs. the older, deliberate Broncos.

It’s not enough that the Tigers will play in their first NCAA Tournament in eight years. Now there’s the chance Penny Hardaway may bring back Emoni Bates. Either way, Thursday will be a compelling day for Memphis basketball.

Jalen Duren unfazed by Boise State’s big man; what to make of Landers Nolley II? 

Bates was seen practicing with the team Wednesday ahead of the NCAA Tournament first-round game.

The Broncos’ defensive versatility makes them formidable, but they haven’t faced pressure from a defense like the Tigers’.

Their pain of losing in the AAC title game overshadows somewhat their joy of making the NCAA Tournament.

March 13, 2022: The Houston Cougars defeat the Memphis Tigers at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas.

The Tigers will face Boise State on Thursday.

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What Twitter’s saying after Houston defeats Tigers

Think the Cougars were angry about losing twice to the Tigers? Houston certainly played like it.

The Tigers lost to Houston Sunday afternoon but as one fan tweeted, “Memphis is going to the NCAA Tournament. That’s what matters.”

The Tigers’ evolution, along with their strength in numbers, has resulted in 12 wins in 13 games.

“The Memphis Tigers will play for the AAC Tournament title Sunday, and then they’ll get an NCAA Tournament bid. It has all been well and truly earned.”

March 12, 2022: The Memphis Tigers defeat the SMU Mustangs at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas.

Despite foul trouble and Jalen Duren’s injury scare, the Tigers dominated the glass and got key minutes from Earl Timberlake to advance to the AAC final against Houston.

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When the Tigers play ‘Memphis basketball’ they’re formidable

Penny Hardaway says the Tigers will play inside-out this time against the Mustangs.

Admit it, you were nervous. Until Jalen Duren and Alex Lomax restored order. And reminded everyone that the Memphis Tigers didn’t come to the American Athletic Conference Tournament to lose. 

The Mustangs have been a natural foil to Memphis, but the Tigers know what it’s going to take to come out victorious after two brutal losses this season.

March 11, 2022: The Memphis Tigers defeat the UCF Knights at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas.

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Duren, Quinones lead Tigers’ blowout of UCF

Jalen Duren had 21 points and set a tournament record with 20 rebounds as the Tigers advanced to face SMU in the AAC Tournament.

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Penny Hardaway wanted to face SMU again. He gets his wish.

Box score: Memphis 85, UCF 69

His month-long absence because of a back injury showed just how important he is to Memphis.