Memphis Basketball Faces Wichita State in Key Conference Matchup

Tigers look to bounce back after recent struggles and keep tournament hopes alive

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

The Memphis Tigers basketball team, the defending champions of the American Athletic Conference, will take on the Wichita State Shockers in a crucial conference matchup on February 26th. The Tigers, currently 12-15 overall and 7-7 in conference play, are looking to improve their standing and secure a spot in the upcoming league tournament. The Shockers, on the other hand, enter the game with an 18-10 record and 10-5 in conference, making this an important game for both teams.

Why it matters

This game has major implications for the American Athletic Conference tournament, as both teams are fighting for positioning. Memphis, the defending champions, need a strong finish to the regular season to ensure they can defend their title, while Wichita State is looking to solidify their standing as one of the top teams in the league.

The details

The two teams previously met on January 24th, with Wichita State defeating Memphis 78-72 in Wichita, Kansas. Since that loss, the Tigers have struggled, going 3-5 in their last 8 games. Head coach Penny Hardaway's squad will be looking to bounce back and pick up a crucial conference win against the Shockers.

  • The game will take place on February 26, 2026.
  • The two teams previously met on January 24, 2026, with Wichita State defeating Memphis 78-72.

The players

Penny Hardaway

Head coach of the Memphis Tigers basketball team.

Wichita State Shockers

The men's basketball team from Wichita State University, currently 18-10 overall and 10-5 in the American Athletic Conference.

Memphis Tigers

The men's basketball team from the University of Memphis, the defending champions of the American Athletic Conference, currently 12-15 overall and 7-7 in conference play.

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What they’re saying

“We know this is a big game for us, but we're ready to step up and compete. Our guys have been working hard, and we're looking forward to the challenge.”

— Penny Hardaway, Head Coach, Memphis Tigers (Commercial Appeal)

What’s next

The winner of this game will take a step closer to securing a higher seed in the upcoming American Athletic Conference tournament.

The takeaway

This matchup between the defending conference champions Memphis Tigers and the Wichita State Shockers is a crucial game for both teams as they jockey for position in the American Athletic Conference standings and aim to secure a spot in the league tournament.