Even before the NCAA tournament began, critics were skeptical of Memphis’ shot to win it all.

“How can a team that shoots under 60 percent from the free throw line win the tournament?”

the critics said. “They won’t be able to close out games.”

Well, Memphis found a simple solution to those questions: don’t let free throws decide the game.

The Tigers’ four wins thus far have come by an average victory margin of almost 16 points. As if that wasn’t enough, they’re hitting their free throws, too.

Despite struggling from the charity stripe in the first two rounds, the Tigers have recently found their mark, hitting 79 percent from the line. This includes a 30-of-36 performance against Texas in the Elite 8.

It’s hard to bet against a back court with junior Chris Douglas-Roberts and freshman Derrick Rose.

The duo has scored 20-plus points each in Memphis’ last two games.

The Tigers also have some depth with Doneal Mack coming off the bench, Mack is averaging under 13 minutes a game, yet putting in over seven points.

The fact that Memphis is such a deep team adds to their toughness in the tournament. An off game from one of its stars won’t be the end for the Tigers, so long as the others play like they have been this tournament.