SEATTLE — In an electrifying performance, Kyan Evans showcased his sharpshooting skills by sinking a career-high six three-pointers, amassing 23 points to guide the 12th-seeded Colorado State to a victory over the fifth-seeded Memphis, with a final score of 78-70 during Friday’s first round of the NCAA Tournament.
“Kyan was in the zone tonight; I wish I could feel that level of confidence,” commented Colorado State coach Niko Medved.
Nique Clifford, who shone in the Mountain West Tournament, had a somewhat muted night with only 14 points, with a significant contribution of eight points from free throws. However, he played an all-rounded game with eight rebounds and six assists, aiding the Rams (26-9) in securing their 11th consecutive win, marking their progression to the second round for the first time since 2013. The Rams are set to face the fourth-seeded Maryland on Sunday.
Despite the seeding, Colorado State was actually favored by 2 1/2 points according to BetMGM Sportsbook, so the result wasn’t seen as a major upset. Memphis, coached by Penny Hardaway, faced a challenge without their experienced guard Tyrese Hunter, who was absent due to a left foot injury.
Memphis’s Dain Dainja made a commendable effort with 22 points and 12 rebounds, securing his third consecutive double-double to close out the season. Teammates PJ Haggerty and Colby Rogers each scored 18 points.
“It’s disappointing; we had high hopes to achieve something great, yet couldn’t carry it through,” lamented Hardaway.
Jalen Lake added 14 points, and Jaylen Crocker-Johnson contributed 12 points to Colorado State’s effort.
The Rams took the reins at the onset of the second half. Utilizing contributions from seven different players within the first eight minutes, they managed to turn a five-point trail into a six-point advantage.
“This squad continuously astounds me by finding another level, and various players emerge to lead us,” Medved praised.
Though Clifford had a slower start, hitting only two field goals in the initial 27 minutes, he scored a pivotal turnaround jumper with 13:38 remaining to edge the Rams ahead at 52-50. His subsequent assist to Bowen Born secured a four-point lead they didn’t relinquish.
“Even when the shots aren’t falling, I aim to impact other areas of the game,” noted Clifford.
Record-breaking performance
Haggerty made history with a transition layup late in the first half, surpassing the previous AAC single-season scoring benchmark, formerly held by Kendric Davis, reaching 746 points.
Missing key players
Hunter, a crucial player for the Tigers claimed first-team all-AAC recognition, was absent for the second game running due to a left foot injury, leaving a notable gap in leadership and defense.
“We missed our leader on the court. His leadership and experience were desperately needed today,” Hardaway expressed.
Dante Harris, typically playing as Hunter’s backup, also remained sidelined following an ankle injury sustained on March 4. As a result, Baraka Okojie stepped in for the second consecutive game, contributing four assists.