Surprising Tigers

My thoughts on the five main reasons the Memphis Tigers beat the UCLA Bruins tonight:

* Improved free throw shooting. From 60-something during the regular season to over 80% tonight. That alone is enough to make the difference in the margin of victory.

* Superior guard play. The Memphis backcourt was a lot longer, a lot quicker, and basically just a lot more effective than the much-praised Bruin guards. Memphis also made much better decisions about what to DO with the ball, while UCLA'a horrid shooting from beyond the arc was like a dagger in their own heart.

* Better defensive energy. It seemed to me that Memphis simply beat the Bruins to the ball at just about every opportunity. UCLA on the other hand made a habit out of making turnovers that were apparently unforced, but were probably mostly the result of haste in response to the presence of Tigers on the hardwood. As for getting the ball in more often to Kevin Love, good luck. This guy was drawing two and a half defenders even WITHOUT the ball. The other guys need to make their lay-ups.

* Better offensive recognition. Not only did the Memphis guards play harder, they also played a lot smarter. Better recognition, better decision making, better shot selection, better, better, better.

* All around better coaching. Congratulations John Calipari! 38 wins is a helluva accomplishment. And maybe on Monday, you'll be able to add a championship to number 39.