AP

The Siena men's basketball team started well, but No. 21 Memphis was far too good on Thanksgiving
evening.

The Tigers had just too much offense and size for the younger Saints, posting a 87-60 victory at the Old Spice Classic.

Coach Jimmy Patsos wasn't thrilled with the effort, especially in the middle of the game, saying, "I expect us to compete a little harder."

Memphis coach Josh Pastner had high praise for Patsos and the Saints.

"I think Siena should give him a lifetime contract," Pastner said to the AP. "He's the best. His teams play so hard. If I'm Siena's president, I would lock Coach Patsos up right now. I wouldn't wait. That program is going to get to where you're consistently going to the NCAA tournament."

The Saints play Saint Joseph's on Friday evening, at 8 p.m., on ESPNU.

Siena has already played two Atlantic 10 schools, losing at La Salle and defeated St. Bonaventuue, at home.

AP