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Memphis looks to pass test vs. Cincinnati

Dec 29, 2008 - 3:00 PM Cincinnati (10-2) at No. 24 Memphis (9-3) 9:00 p.m. EST

MEMPHIS, Tennessee (Ticker) -- Memphis has failed in its three attempts for a marquee win after falling in the national championship game last season.

While Monday's contest against Cincinnati would not be an upset, it would provide a resume builder for the 24th-ranked Tigers.

Memphis' three losses have come by single digits to a pair of ranked teams, Georgetown and Syracuse, and always tough Xavier. It bounced back from its latest defeat against the Orange with a blowout win over Drexel.

Tyreke Evans led five players in double figures with 20 points as the Tigers cruised to a 19-point halftime lead en route to a 87-49 win.

With games against Tennessee and Gonzaga sprinkled among its Conference USA schedule, the Tigers still have chances to earn signature wins.

Cincinnati has also struggled when tested so far this season, dropping contests to Florida State and then-ninth-ranked Xavier.

The Bearcats blasted Arkansas-Pine Bluff, 79-49, last Monday. Deonta Vaughn, Yancy Gates and Steve Toyloy scored 14 points apiece, outscoring the Golden Lions 43-16 in the opening 20 minutes.

Cincinnati opens Big East play January 4 at 24th-ranked Marquette.