Alex Lomax said it would be a “dream come true” to lead Memphis back to the NCAA tournament. Against ECU, he kept that dream alive through sheer force of will.

The close ones are stress-inducing, but also revealing who the leaders are.

Feb. 6, 2021: Memphis 66, East Carolina 59 
Related article: Memphis escapes upset-minded ECU

Tigers stage another dramatic finish in a game marked by more inconsistency.

And more than one reader wanted to know about possible transfers.

Behind Landers Nolley II’s winning performance vs. UCF: A conversation with Penny Hardaway, and a superstition. 

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Box score: Memphis 75, UCF 61

Memphis pulls off season sweep of UCF

Feb. 1, 2021: Memphis 75, UCF 61

The Tigers had a rocky start to the second half, but were able to repel each challenge in the 75-61 win.

Box score: Memphis 75, UCF 61

The Tigers aren’t the only program affected. An expected rule change has led to what one recruiting director calls “free agency in college football.”

Much has been made of the Tigers' offensive turnaround, but let’s not take the consistent defensive efficiency for granted. 

With five Tigers scoring in double figures and the defense forcing 28 turnovers, the team is looking the way Penny Hardaway envisioned.

Feb. 1, 2021: Memphis 96, UCF 69

After a tough loss to SMU, the 96-69 win was just what the Tigers needed.

Lapsing into “one-on-one instead of just being team,” the Tigers squandered a chance to extend their winning streak.

Related story: Memphis can’t repeat comeback in loss to SMU

Jan. 28, 2021: SMU 67, Memphis 65

This game started just as ugly as the Jan. 26 matchup, and the Tigers weren’t able to convert in the final seconds.

Related story: Box score: SMU 67, Memphis 65

Regular-season finale will be at 11 a.m.

From Penny Hardaway’s choice to go small at the end, to Alex Lomax’s hustle, every decision had a critical effect.

The Tigers didn’t just defeat SMU at FedExForum Tuesday night. They showed the ability to fight back.

Jan. 26, 2021: Memphis 76, SMU 72

Alex Lomax led the rally in the first half and a couple of key breaks late in the game gave the Tigers their third straight win. 

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• Box score: Memphis 76, SMU 72
• When 1 second makes for a big, satisfying Tigers result
• Calkins: The Memphis Tigers may finally be learning to win

At last, the offense has kicked in. And with two games this week against SMU, the defense will need to be as solid as ever.

The past two games indicate some of the bigger problems might be resolved. Now it’s time to get to the details.

Jan. 24, 2021: University of Memphis Tigers 80, East Carolina University Pirates 53