Early Deficit Too Much to Overcome in Memphis' Loss at Tulane

Memphis women's basketball falls to Tulane, 69-54, despite strong rebounding performance

Feb. 27, 2026 at 3:07pm

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The University of Memphis women's basketball team was defeated by Tulane, 69-54, on Thursday night at Devlin Fieldhouse in New Orleans. The Tigers built an early 8-2 lead, but Tulane responded with a 19-1 run to take control of the game. Memphis was unable to overcome the early deficit despite winning the rebounding battle and limiting their turnovers.

Why it matters

This loss drops Memphis to 8-18 overall and 2-11 in American Athletic Conference play, making it increasingly difficult for the team to qualify for postseason play. Tulane, on the other hand, improves to 10-16 and 5-9 in conference, keeping their slim hopes of making the conference tournament alive.

The details

The Tigers scored the first eight points of the game, but Tulane then went on a 19-1 run to take a 21-9 lead after the first quarter. Memphis struggled offensively, shooting just 27.6% in the first half and scoring a season-low 20 points before halftime. While the Tigers won the second half 34-30, they were unable to get the game within single digits despite an 8-point fourth quarter from Tamya Smith, who led Memphis with 20 points. Tulane had four players score in double figures, led by Mecailin Marshall's 15 points.

  • The game was played on Thursday, February 20, 2026 at Devlin Fieldhouse in New Orleans.
  • Memphis will next play at Temple on Sunday, February 22, 2026 at 1 p.m.

The players

Tamya Smith

A Memphis player who scored a game-high 20 points in the loss.

Paris Gaines

A Memphis player who grabbed 10 rebounds, the first time this season Memphis has lost when winning the rebounding battle.

Mecailin Marshall

A Tulane player who led the Green Wave with 15 points.

Dyllan Hanna

A Tulane player who recorded 12 rebounds.

Shiloh Kimpson

A Tulane player who had 10 assists.

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What’s next

The Tigers will remain on the road this weekend, battling Temple on Sunday, February 22, at 1 p.m.

The takeaway

This loss highlights the challenges Memphis has faced this season, as they struggle to overcome early deficits and qualify for postseason play. However, the team's strong rebounding performance and improved ball security suggest they are making progress, and they will look to build on those positives as they continue their conference schedule.