Memphis basketball’s fourth straight loss at UAB highlighted late-game issues and a costly shooting night

What happened in Birmingham

Memphis’ men’s basketball team left Birmingham with a fourth consecutive loss after falling 80-90 at UAB on Feb. 5, 2026, at Bartow Arena. The defeat pushed the Tigers to 11-11 overall and 6-4 in American Athletic Conference play, while UAB improved to 14-9 and 5-5.

Memphis led 44-35 at halftime, but UAB narrowed the gap after the break with a 45-46 second-half score. The Tigers’ advantage held through the closing stretch as UAB’s attempts to speed up the game and trade threes did not produce enough stops.

Key numbers that shaped the result

• Memphis shot 52% from the field (33-of-63) compared with UAB’s 38% (25-of-66).
• UAB attempted far more three-pointers (37) but made 24% (9-of-37). Memphis hit 40% (8-of-20).
• UAB gained a large volume edge at the line (35 free-throw attempts) but converted 60% (21-of-35). Memphis shot 76% (16-of-21).
• Rebounding was even (39-39), removing a common pathway for a road comeback.
• Memphis committed 16 turnovers, a figure that kept UAB within reach despite the Tigers’ efficiency.

Individual performances

Guard Sincere Parker produced the game’s defining performance, scoring 40 points on 14-of-20 shooting and making six three-pointers. His shot-making stabilized Memphis during UAB runs and preserved the Tigers’ lead into the final minutes.

For UAB, Chance Westry led with 15 points and also registered six assists. UAB’s Daniel Rivera collected 10 rebounds, but the Blazers did not translate extra possessions into enough high-percentage offense, particularly from three-point range.

How the loss extended Memphis’ skid

The four-game slide was underscored by recurring, measurable problems: Memphis’ turnover count remained high, and the team did not generate enough separation to withstand a second-half push. Meanwhile, UAB’s approach relied heavily on perimeter volume; the Blazers created opportunities but could not convert at an efficient rate to overturn the halftime deficit.

Memphis’ combination of efficient shooting and a 40-point night from Parker outweighed UAB’s higher three-point and free-throw volume.

What’s next

With AAC play continuing, Memphis’ path forward hinges on tightening late-game execution and reducing turnovers to prevent opponents from staying within striking distance on the road. UAB, after failing to capitalize on its shot volume, faces a similar emphasis on improving conversion rates from the perimeter and at the foul line.