A great game by Beard led Memphis to a 128-104 defeat of Orlando. Although Orlando certainly planned for Beard in their pre-game strategy, stopping him during the game turned out to be more of a challenge. "We thought we knew how to beat Memphis, but we were dead wrong," said Orlando coach Bob. "We figured we'd try to put them out of their game plan and try to limit Beard's effectiveness, but it simply didn't happen - he was just too good."

Said Beard, "I knew I had a target on my back, and took it as a challenge. If they're going to change their game plan to stop me, it gives me that much more desire to step up and perservere. Anyway, they know what I can do now, so we'll see if they dare try this strategy again." Tune in next time.

Memphis was led by Beard (24 points, 2 assists, a steal), Mcwilliams (12 points, 9 assists, 3 steals), Morgan (22 points). Orlando was led by Bermel (12 points, 4 steals), Farmer (9 points, 7 boards, 1 assists, 2 blocks), Moore (10 points, 9 boards, 1 assists, a block).

With the win, Memphis improve to 14-15 and 10-4 at home. They hold at #4 in the Southwest and remain at #10 overall in the Western Conference. Orlando drop to 14-16. They fall to #3 in the Southeast and drop to #9 overall in the Eastern Conference.

box score Memphis roster Orlando roster