KNOXVILLE— The Memphis Tigers (9-3) travel to Knoxville Friday to battle the Vols (8-3) in what is sure to be a physical matchup. Memphis coach Josh Pastner added additional fire to the already heated rivalry by continuing his campaign to end the annual game with the Vols. Though he recently backed off away from his stance (and Memphis AD Tom Bowen stated his desire to continue the series), the Vols and Tigers aren’t scheduled to play each other next season.

Photo by Reed Carringer

The Vols are undefeated at home (6-0) while Memphis is just 1-2 away from the friendly confines of FedEx Forum. Jordan McRae and Josh Richardson have arguably been playing the best ball of their careers. McRae is averaging nearly 13 points per game during the current homestand and has come through with big buckets multiple times the last two weeks. Josh Richardson makes a habit of shutting down the opposing team’s best player, but has come into his own offensively the last two games; the sophomore guard is 10 for his last 13 from the floor. Vol coach Cuonzo Martin will continue to look to these two players to provide balance offensively.

While Richardson and McRae are playing well, Martin will count on Memphis- native Jarnell Stokes to rebound from a subpar performance against Xavier. The talented forward scored just six points last game, and found himself on the bench during critical moments down the stretch. Trae Golden, Tennessee’s leading scorer, went 0-5 against the Musketeers and will also look to bounce back from his worst effort of the season.

Vol freshman Derek Reese provided a spark off the bench against Xavier. He scored 7 points while tallying 1 block and 2 steals. Reese is listed as doubtful for the Memphis game (sprained ankle).

Memphis comes into the game on a three-game winning streak.

Key to the Game: With the absence of Reese, Martin desperately needs Golden and Stokes to return to form. It will take big games from both players for the Vols to pull out the “W” against a talented Memphis team.