The Memphis Tigers (20-8) face off against the ECU Pirates (14-13) in an AAC showdown on Thursday, February 29 at 7:00 PM ET for a great college basketball betting opportunity. ZenSports Tennessee sportsbook has the Tigers as 4.0-point favorites (-113) to succeed.

When: February 29, 2023 at 7:00 PM ET

Where: Williams Arena at Minges Coliseum

Watch: ESPN2

Memphis Tigers Preview

The Tigers are 3-2 in their previous five games (9-7 in conference play) and are currently riding a two-game win streak. Their latest triumph was a 78-74 performance over the FAU Owls, where David Jones shined with 25 points and 11 rebounds.

Jones is offering an excellent year for the Tigers, averaging 21.7 points and 7.5 rebounds per game. He currently ranks sixth in the nation for his offensive output, making him a threat each time he steps on the floor for opposing teams.

The Tigers have been averaging 80.0 points per game, placing them 46th nationally. In terms of efficiency with the basketball, they stand at the 99th spot with a rating of 110.1. They have the potential for improvement in ball movement, as they currently average only 13.4 assists per game.

On the defensive end, they allow opponents to average 75.6 points, ranking 289th nationally. They are averaging 4.8 blocks and 8.8 steals a game, which will be key here. Their defensive efficiency holds the 196th position, with a rating of 104.1.

ECU Pirates Preview

The Pirates, like the Tigers, are also 3-2 over their last five games. They are also 7-7 in the conference, which is not far off from the Tigers. However, they are coming off of a 70-52 blowout loss against the Rice Owls and snapped their three-game winning streak.

RJ Felton (16.5 PPG, 6.3 REB) currently leads them in scoring with 41.8 percent shooting from the field. The bigger story will be if Brandon Johnson (13.7 PPG, 8.5 REB) can counter Jones from the Tigers or at least contain him.

The Pirates achieve an average of 69.2 points per game, holding the 298th national rank. Their basketball efficiency ranks at 213th, boasting a rating of 104.9. In terms of assists, they currently boast 12.0 per game, an aspect that needs enhancement for improved scoring opportunities against the Tigers.

On the defensive front, they concede 67.8 points per game, positioning them at 71st. With an average of 2.7 blocks and 8.1 steals per game, their defensive prowess is notable. Their efficiency in defensive stops stands at 157th, carrying a rating of 102.9.

Betting Odds

ZenSports Tennessee sportsbook provides exciting betting options for college basketball. Currently, the Memphis Tigers face a modest likelihood of success, as market insights indicate a 66.6 percent chance of winning on the road.

ECU Pirates: +145

Spread: +4.0 (-113)

Memphis Tigers: -188

Spread: -4.0 (-113)

Totals: Over 145.5 (-115), Under 145.5 (-111)

Photo Credit: © Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports