After 10 long days without Memphis Hustle basketball, we are finally back to some normalcy. The Hustle broke their silence on Sunday afternoon versus the Birmingham Squadron, who were led by the heat of former Memphis Tiger Landers Nolley II, who propelled them with a solid 28 points en route to a road victory. The Hustle had great play from their starters on the offensive end in this matchup but were left short off the bench and on the defensive end, resulting in a tough loss in this resumption of action.
Birmingham came into the Sunday matchup two games below even on the season, looking to catch up and strike closer on playoff positioning as the final month of the season is quickly approaching. The Squadron were catapulted by Tevian Jones, Izaiah Brockington, and former Tiger Landers Nolley II, who all poured 27+ points apiece as they carried their squadron over the Hustle for a tough road victory.
The Hustle still put up a great effort despite falling short in their homecoming reunion. The Arms and Jarreau Show was still in full effect, with Adonis Arms firing off for 30 points (tying his career high), seven boards, three assists, and three steals, while Deeky Jarreau almost notched yet another triple-double with 28 points, 10 assists, and nine rebounds. Timmy Allen also contributed a solid 18-point, 3-steal showing, yet it was unfortunately not enough to propel the Hustle to victory.
This knocks the Hustle a game below .500 on this season with 13 games remaining in the regular season. They Hustle have battled a lot of roster adjustments, call-ups and on the fly moves throughout this season so to even be in the position they’re in at the moment is insanely impressive. I believe this squad can piece it together and make a strong push into the post season if they continue to play at the level they are currently playing at. The unprecedented events of this season have led to the emergence of guys on this roster and also led to a boost in chemistry and understanding for the guys who’ve been on the team; it’s been a beautiful thing to witness despite the growing pains.
The Hustle are set to resume action on Wednesday live from Mexico as they take on the Mexico City Capitanes. The tip will be live at 8:00 p.m. CDT.
The game will be available for viewing on ESPN+.
Follow Myke on Twitter/X by clicking here.
(Photo via @MemphisHustle on X/Twitter)