Colorado State Rams Stun Memphis Tigers in First Round Upset
Memphis, TN – The bracket is already busting! Another double-digit seed has crashed the NCAA Tournament party, as the Colorado State Rams orchestrated a compelling 78-70 victory over the hometown Memphis Tigers in their first-round matchup on Friday. The FedExForum, usually a den of roars and Tiger pride, fell silent as the Rams methodically dismantled Memphis’s early lead and seized control in the second half, adding their name to the quickly growing list of underdog victors.
The game began as many expected, a tightly contested affair between two teams hungry to prove their worth on the national stage. The first half was a seesaw battle, a back-and-forth exchange of baskets that kept the crowd on the edge of their seats. Neither team could establish a significant advantage, with momentum shifting constantly like the wind. Memphis, fueled by the energy of their home crowd, managed to eke out a slim 36-31 lead heading into the locker room at halftime. The Tigers’ Dain Dainja and Colby Rogers were a formidable duo in the opening stanza, combining for a hefty 27 points and showcasing the offensive firepower that made Memphis a dangerous opponent. The feeling at the break was one of nervous anticipation; Memphis held the lead, but Colorado State showed resilience and a refusal to back down.
However, the second half was a different story altogether. The Rams emerged from the locker room with renewed purpose and a steely determination that seemed to catch the Tigers off guard. Colorado State, riding the momentum of their impressive 10-game winning streak, including a Mountain West tournament championship, executed their game plan with precision and tenacity.
The turning point arrived midway through the second half when the Rams unleashed a decisive 16-4 run, a surge of energy and offensive prowess that completely flipped the script. This burst of scoring not only erased Memphis’s halftime advantage but also propelled Colorado State into a lead they would never relinquish. The Rams’ defense tightened, disrupting Memphis’s offensive flow and forcing difficult shots. On the other end of the court, they moved the ball with purpose, finding open looks and capitalizing on their opportunities.
While Nique Clifford, typically a key contributor for Colorado State, didn’t have his most efficient shooting performance, his teammates stepped up in a major way. Sophomore guard Kyan Evans was the spark the Rams needed. Evans exploded for a career-high 23 points, showcasing his sharpshooting ability by connecting on an impressive six 3-pointers. His timely baskets proved to be crucial in sustaining the Rams’ lead and demoralizing the Memphis defense. Evans’s performance underscored the importance of having players who can rise to the occasion when the spotlight shines brightest.
For Memphis, the second half was a stark contrast to their promising start. Dainja and Rogers, who had been so effective in the first half, struggled to maintain their scoring pace. The Colorado State defense made adjustments, focusing on limiting their touches and forcing them into contested shots. The Tigers’ overall shooting percentage plummeted in the second half, dipping below 35%, a statistic that speaks volumes about their offensive struggles. The home crowd, once a source of energy, grew increasingly quiet as the Rams extended their lead. The weight of expectations seemed to bear down on the Tigers, hindering their ability to execute and make plays.
The victory for Colorado State is more than just a single game; it’s a testament to their resilience, teamwork, and unwavering belief in themselves. They entered the tournament as a double-digit seed, but they played with the confidence and poise of a team that believes it belongs among the nation’s elite. Their ability to overcome adversity, adapt to changing game situations, and find contributions from multiple players makes them a dangerous opponent moving forward.
Colorado State’s triumph also contributes to a growing narrative of upsets and bracket-busting performances in this year’s tournament. They join a list of other double-digit seeds who have already notched first-round victories, including No. 12 McNeese State, No. 11 Drake, and No. 10 Arkansas, who all secured wins on Thursday. This wave of upsets underscores the unpredictability and excitement that make March Madness so captivating. It’s a reminder that rankings and seedings are just numbers and that any team can beat anyone on any given day. The parity in college basketball is on full display, as teams from smaller conferences and less heralded programs prove they can compete with the powerhouses.
Looking ahead, Colorado State will advance to the second round with newfound confidence and momentum. They will face a tough challenge against their next opponent, but they have already proven that they are capable of taking down highly ranked teams. Their ability to play together, defend with intensity, and find scoring from multiple sources makes them a team that no one will want to face.
For Memphis, the loss is a bitter disappointment. They entered the tournament with high hopes and expectations, fueled by their talented roster and home-court advantage. However, they were unable to sustain their early success, and their second-half struggles proved to be their undoing. This loss will undoubtedly sting for the players, coaches, and fans, but it also serves as a reminder of the unforgiving nature of the NCAA Tournament. In March Madness, there are no guarantees, and even the most talented teams can be sent home early.
The Colorado State Rams have etched their name in this year’s tournament lore, reminding everyone that in college basketball, anything is possible, and the underdogs are always lurking, ready to pounce. They will continue their journey, carrying the banner for double-digit seeds everywhere and dreaming of making an improbable run to the Sweet Sixteen and beyond. This is March Madness, where dreams are made, and brackets are broken.
