Wichita State defeats Memphis 88-82 at FedExForum as Shockers complete regular-season sweep

Game result

Wichita State beat Memphis 88-82 in American Athletic Conference play at FedExForum in Memphis on Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026. The result completed a regular-season sweep for Wichita State, which also defeated Memphis 74-59 on Jan. 24, 2026.

The Feb. 26 matchup was carried on ESPN2, with tip scheduled for 8 p.m. Central time. It ended as a six-point road win that tightened Wichita State’s position near the top of the conference standings while adding to a late-season skid for Memphis.

How the game unfolded

Wichita State led 40-35 at halftime and maintained its edge through the second half, finishing with 88 points. Memphis stayed within striking distance but could not overtake the Shockers down the stretch.

The game featured stretches of fast scoring from both sides, with Memphis generating offense from the perimeter and in transition while Wichita State repeatedly produced points through sustained possessions and second-chance opportunities—an area that has been a defining part of its season profile.

Key performers

Wichita State guard Kenyon Giles scored 22 points in the win. Memphis received significant production from its backcourt and wings, but the Tigers did not do enough defensively to limit Wichita State’s scoring in the final 20 minutes.

• Final score: Wichita State 88, Memphis 82
• Halftime: Wichita State 40, Memphis 35
• Venue: FedExForum (Memphis, Tennessee)
• TV: ESPN2

Conference context and what it means

With the victory, Wichita State improved its conference record to 11-5, a mark that placed the Shockers in the AAC’s upper tier at the time of the final horn. Memphis fell to 7-8 in league play, a record that left the Tigers needing a strong finish to improve their standing heading into the conference tournament.

The result also underscored a matchup dynamic that appeared in the first meeting: Wichita State’s ability to build a first-half cushion and manage the game from ahead. In the Jan. 24 win, Wichita State led 40-22 at halftime on the way to a 74-59 final. On Feb. 26, Memphis was more competitive at the break, but the outcome was the same.

At this stage of the season, AAC results have immediate implications for tournament seeding, with every win and loss reshaping the middle and top of the standings.

Next steps

Both teams move forward with the final week of conference play approaching, with Memphis needing to stabilize defensively and Wichita State looking to maintain momentum as postseason positioning comes into sharper focus.