The Memphis basketball program aims to elevate its 2023-24 performance as they approach the fall of 2024. The Tigers secured formidable contributions from the transfer portal over the offseason. Former Orlando Magic standout and Memphis head coach Penny Hardaway is determined to maximize his team’s potential. Nonetheless, Hardaway reportedly fell victim to theft in August.
Authorities apprehended a suspect Thursday, who allegedly took 26 pairs of shoes from Hardaway’s $4.25 million residence, as reported by ESPN’s Myron Medcalf.
A Memphis police report revealed that the suspect, 42-year-old Ronald James, was captured on surveillance footage taking Hardaway’s belongings and pushing boxes in a shopping cart near his residence earlier in August. The police disseminated the man’s image and requested the public’s assistance in identifying him.
Hardaway shared with Memphis TV station WREG that 26 pairs of “one-of-a-kind” Foamposite sneakers were stolen from his residence, according to Medcalf. It remains uncertain what the subsequent steps will be regarding James’ alleged participation in the matter concerning Hardaway’s belongings.
Memphis basketball poised for growth in 2024-25
The Tigers concluded the 2023-24 season with a 26-9 overall record, securing second place in the American Athletic Conference, falling behind the well-regarded Houston Cougars. Memphis made significant moves in the transfer portal, resulting in a lineup bolstered by strong players.
One of the notable early signings for Memphis was former Tulsa guard PJ Haggerty, as highlighted by ClutchPoints’ Liam Hanley. Haggerty ranked 15th in scoring nationally as a freshman in 2023-24, averaging 21.2 points per game.
Additionally, Haggerty ranked third in the nation for free-throw attempts, following former Gonzaga center Zach Eddey and San Diego State’s Jaedon Lee.
The offensive enhancements for Memphis extend beyond Haggerty. The Tigers secured Wichita State guard Colby Rogers, who posted a 40 percent shooting rate from beyond the arc while averaging 16.8 points per game in 2023-24.
Moreover, the Tigers faced challenges in competing against other teams in the paint throughout the season. Therefore, they bolstered their rebounding efforts by acquiring former Illinois forward Dain Dainja, who averaged 3.6 rebounds per contest in just over 10 minutes of play.
With the additions from the transfer portal and new talent, Memphis appears poised for both immediate and long-term success. Penny Hardaway possesses firsthand experience of what championship-caliber teams resemble from his collegiate career at Memphis and with the Magic. Will 2024-25 mark the year his Tigers finally advance and achieve a significant run in the NCAA Tournament?
Image Source: Penny Hardaway @ Instagram
