UAB Blazers vs. Memphis Tigers: A Battle for AAC Supremacy and NCAA Glory

Introduction to the Game

The stage is set for an exciting showdown in the American Athletic Conference (AAC) Championship final, as the No. 3 seed UAB Blazers (22-11) prepare to face the No. 1 seed Memphis Tigers (28-5) on Sunday, March 16, 2025. This highly anticipated matchup will determine the conference champion and secure an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament for the winning team. The game, scheduled to tip off at 3:00 PM ET, will be broadcast on ESPN and streamed live on FuboTV. Fans can expect a thrilling contest filled with stellar performances and high stakes, as both teams aim to make their mark on the college basketball stage.

Memphis Tigers: Led by the Phenomenal PJ Haggerty

The Memphis Tigers enter this championship game with a seven-game winning streak, showcasing their dominance in the AAC this season. At the heart of their success is sophomore sensation PJ Haggerty, who has been nothing short of sensational. Haggerty, who ranks third in the nation with an impressive 21.8 points per game, has consistently delivered performances that have left fans and opponents in awe. In the Tigers’ quarterfinal matchup against Wichita State, he dropped an astonishing 42 points, complemented by nine rebounds, four assists, a block, and three steals—a testament to his all-around skills.

Haggerty’s ability to take over games will be a major challenge for the UAB Blazers, especially given his past performances against them. In the two regular-season matchups between the teams, Haggerty scored a combined 48 points, leading the Tigers to convincing victories (100-77 and 88-81). If he can replicate this form in the championship game, the Blazers may find it difficult to keep up. With his explosive scoring and versatility, Haggerty is undoubtedly the player to watch for Memphis.

UAB Blazers: Counting on Yaxel Lendeborg for an Upset Bid

While the Memphis Tigers are the clear favorites, the UAB Blazers are determined to pull off an upset and secure their spot in the NCAA Tournament. Leading the charge for the Blazers is senior forward Yaxel Lendeborg, who has been instrumental in his team’s postseason run. Averaging 17.7 points per game this season, Lendeborg has stepped up his game in the conference tournament, scoring a combined 53 points in the quarterfinal and semifinal games. His ability to score in clutch moments will be crucial if the Blazers hope to overcome the Tigers.

Lendeborg’s performance will be under the microscope, as he faces one of the toughest defensive units in the AAC. While he may not be able to match Haggerty’s production, his ability to maintain consistency and deliver under pressure could make all the difference. The Blazers will need a strong team effort, but Lendeborg’s leadership and scoring prowess will be key to their chances of victory.

The Road to the Championship: A Tale of Two Teams

The Memphis Tigers and UAB Blazers have taken different paths to reach the AAC Championship game. Memphis, as the No. 1 seed, has been the team to beat all season, with their dominant play and deep roster. The Tigers’ ability to perform under pressure and their star power give them a significant edge. On the other hand, the No. 3 seed Blazers have defied expectations, relying on teamwork, resilience, and the standout performances of Lendeborg to reach the final.

This matchup is not just about bragging rights; it’s about securing an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament. For the Blazers, a win would be a Cinderella story, while for the Tigers, it would be a validation of their hard work and a stepping stone to bigger aspirations. Both teams understand the stakes, and this knowledge will only add to the intensity of the game.

What to Watch For: Key Factors in the Game

As the two teams take the court, several factors will determine the outcome. For the Blazers, slowing down PJ Haggerty will be their biggest challenge. Memphis’ star has shown time and again that he can take over games, and if the Blazers fail to contain him, it could be a long afternoon. On the flip side, the Tigers will need to find ways to limit Yaxel Lendeborg’s impact, as he is the heart and soul of UAB’s offense.

Additionally, the game could come down to which team performs better in critical moments. The Tigers have a reputation for closing out games, while the Blazers have shown resilience in high-pressure situations. Rebounding, defense, and bench contributions will also play a significant role. If the Blazers can stay competitive on the boards and force turnovers, they might have a chance to pull off the upset. However, if the Tigers’ firepower proves too much, they could cruise to another victory.

Conclusion: More Than Just a Game

The AAC Championship game between the UAB Blazers and Memphis Tigers is more than just a game—it’s a gateway to the NCAA Tournament and a chance for both programs to make their mark on the college basketball landscape. For the Tigers, a win would reinforce their dominance and set them up for a deep tournament run. For the Blazers, an upset victory would be a historic achievement and a testament to their perseverance.

As fans tune in to watch this thrilling matchup, they can expect an unforgettable contest filled with excitement, drama, and elite-level basketball. Whether you’re rooting for the favored Tigers or the underdog Blazers, one thing is certain: this game will deliver memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t miss the action—catch the game live on ESPN or stream it on FuboTV. The road to the NCAA Tournament begins here, and only one team will emerge victorious.