Memphis vs Tulane Picks and Prediction – 1/31/2025

Memphis Tigers (16-4, 6-1 AAC) travel to face Tulane Green Wave (11-9, 5-2 AAC) in a key conference matchup. The Tigers come in on a three-game winning streak, most recently dominating UAB 100-77. Tulane, meanwhile, picked up an 82-71 win over Rice after dropping two of the last three. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

Memphis boasts one of the most efficient offenses in the AAC, averaging 79.0 points per game on 47.3% shooting. PJ Haggerty leads the charge with 22.1 points per game while also handling playmaking duties with a team-high 3.5 assists. His shooting is impressive, hitting 50.7% from the field and 80.5% at the free-throw line. Dain Dainja provides an interior presence with 6.4 rebounds per game, helping the Tigers maintain balance inside. They move the ball well with 13.2 assists per contest.

Defensively, Memphis has had lapses, allowing 73.2 points per game. While the Tigers can put up points, opponents have found ways to score effectively, shooting at a reasonable clip. Moussa Cisse anchors the paint with 1.6 blocks per game, and Haggerty contributes defensively with 2.2 steals per contest. Memphis has been effective at forcing turnovers, averaging 7.7 steals per game.

Tulane counters with a strong offensive attack, putting up 76.6 points per game. Kaleb Banks leads the way with 17.5 points per contest on 51.9% shooting. Banks is also the team's top rebounder at 7.4 boards per game, giving Tulane an interior advantage on the glass. Rowan Brumbaugh is the playmaker with a team-best 4.7 assists per game, keeping the Green Wave’s ball movement fluid. Tulane’s 15.7 assists per game are significantly higher than Memphis’ and could play a key role in finding open shots.

Defensively, Tulane holds opponents to 68.6 points per game, which is better than Memphis’ numbers. The Green Wave is active in passing lanes, averaging 7.9 steals per contest, led by Kam Williams at 1.9 per game. Banks also contributes defensively, leading the team in blocks with 1.2 per game.

Memphis’ offensive firepower gives them the edge. The Tigers have the best player on the floor in Haggerty, and the ability to push the pace could wear down Tulane. The Green Wave's defense has been solid, but recent struggles against stronger teams suggest Memphis' scoring depth will be too much. Final Score Prediction: Memphis Tigers wins and covers 88-75