Memphis showed who was the better team tonight with a convincing 125-111 win over New Orleans. Although not exactly a blowout, Memphis coach Bob and his players outplayed New Orleans from start to end. "I was hoping for a better outcome," said New Orleans coach Bob during a post-game interview. "But they just overpowered us, and there was nothing we could do to adjust. Bob's team was more talented and better-prepared, and it would have taken quite a bit of luck for us to overcome that."

The loss was tough on New Orleans fans, who had expected great things from their team after some offseason moves. "I think reality is starting to sink in," said one team. "We didn't expect to see other teams outplaying us this badly, but Memphis sure made their point."

Memphis was led by Brown (24 points, 10 boards, 1 assists, 6 blocks), Washington (27 points, 7 boards, 2 assists, a steal, 2 blocks), Murray (23 points, 5 boards, 2 assists, a steal, 2 blocks). New Orleans was led by Jones (33 points, 4 blocks), Haines (12 points, 5 boards, 1 assists, 4 blocks), Mitchell (15 points).

Memphis improve to 15-10 and 10-3 at home. They stay at #1 in the Southwest and stay at #3 overall in the Western Conference. After this loss, New Orleans drop to 7-17. They stay at #4 in the Southwest and remain at #13 overall in the Western Conference.

box score Memphis roster New Orleans roster