MTSU Women Fall to Memphis, 47-38
Middle Tennessee drops its first game of the 2026-27 season after a second-half Memphis surge.
Updated on Nov. 7, 2026 in Basketball
Middle Tennessee's women's basketball team lost 47-38 to Memphis on Friday night, falling to 1-1 overall and 0-0 in CUSA. The Blue Raiders were tied 25-25 at halftime before Memphis opened the third quarter with a 6-0 run.
Why it matters
The loss is the first of the season for Middle Tennessee and comes early in a campaign where the team is still establishing its footing in Conference USA. Holding Memphis to 33.9 percent shooting shows defensive resilience even in a defeat.
Blair Baugus led Middle Tennessee with 15 points on 6-of-11 shooting and seven rebounds, while six Blue Raiders recorded at least one block. Memphis made just one three-pointer in the game.
The players
Blair Baugus
Middle Tennessee guard who led the Blue Raiders in scoring with 15 points and grabbed seven rebounds in the loss to Memphis.
Memphis Tigers women's basketball
The University of Memphis women's basketball program, competing in the American Athletic Conference, which improved to 2-0 overall with the win.
The details
Memphis opened the third quarter with a 6-0 run that proved decisive after the teams were tied at halftime. Middle Tennessee limited Memphis to 33.9 percent shooting from the field and forced a low-scoring contest throughout.
Timeline
Friday night, November 6, 2026: Middle Tennessee lost 47-38 to Memphis.
Thursday: Middle Tennessee plays Tennessee Lady Vols in Knoxville at 5:30 p.m.
Season Trajectory
Middle Tennessee opens the 2026-27 season at 1-1 with conference play yet to begin, meaning the Memphis loss does not affect its CUSA standing. The Blue Raiders' early schedule, including Thursday's trip to Knoxville, will test whether they can rebound against stronger opposition.
Fantasy and bracket followers tracking Middle Tennessee should note that Baugus carried the scoring load with 15 points while the team's shooting and offensive production were limited in the second half. Local fans can catch the Thursday matchup in Knoxville, where the Blue Raiders face a stronger opponent.
The takeaway
Early-season losses reveal how a team handles second-half adjustments, and Middle Tennessee's defensive effort against Memphis gives it a foundation to build on before Thursday's test in Knoxville.
What happens next
Middle Tennessee plays Tennessee Lady Vols in Knoxville at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday.
Further reading
For more on the local program, see Basketball coverage across Murfreesboro.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Main Street Media of Tennessee -.
