The Skyhawks faced the Memphis Tigers on Saturday, Dec. 4, at the Elam Center. This was easily one of the most exciting games of the season, despite UTM losing 77-74.

The two teams were very evenly matched throughout the first half, as good ball movement and improved outside shooting from the game against UNC allowed the Skyhawks to enjoy a 35 - 29 lead at the half.

The second half opened up with a 6-0 run by the Lady Tigers, who shot an amazing 82.6 percent from the field in the second half, to tie the game.

The tie was broken on the next possession with a three pointer by Skyhawk senior Jenny Lannom, who led the team with 18 points while shooting 7-10 from the field.

The two teams battled back and forth as UTM held on to the lead for the first six minutes of the second half.

However, aggressive guard play by the Tigers led to easy fast break points, including an amazing open court spin move and back to back baskets by Victoria Crawford to give Memphis a 47-44 lead with 13:51 left in the game.

Skyhawk coach Tara Tansil called for timeout at the 9:03 mark, and got in her players’ faces in hopes to improve their effort as they allowed the Tigers to reach their largest lead of the game, 63-56.

The timeout worked, and UTM battled back behind the effort of Andreika Jackson, who looked unstoppable in the second half.

Jackson ended the game with 15 points and even forced the turnover which led to a four point play as Robinson was fouled as she hit a three pointer. Robinson’s free throw tied the game at 71-71.

Both teams were in the bonus late in the second half and UTM was able to remain close as a result of free throws from both teams.

The Tigers jumped back up to a 75 – 74 lead following a lay-up and exchange of free throws from both teams.

The defensive substitution of Kristen Archie by Coach Tansil forced the Lady Tigers into a turnover.

With 45.9 seconds left in the game, the Lady Skyhawks had a chance to regain the lead for the first time in over nine minutes of play.

However, a turnover by UTM on the ensuing possession allowed Memphis to run down the clock and work the ball inside for a lay-up, putting them up 77-74.

With only 9 seconds remaining on the clock, UTM tried to work the ball around for a decent look at a three. Tough defense by Memphis forced an off balance shot by Skyhawks guard Keva Robinson that fell short as time expired.

“The people here saw a pretty good game and they saw what we are capable of doing,” said Coach Tansil. “We are very proud of the effort.”

UTM is now 1-5 on the season.

The Skyhawks look ahead to Tuesday, Dec. 7, when they travel to take on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln at 7:00 p.m.

The women will open up conference play in the Elam Center on Jan. 6 at 5:30 p.m. against the Eastern Kentucky Colonels.