After a turbulent week for the Memphis Tigers basketball program, head coach Penny Hardaway has finally spoken out. In an interview with CBS Sports’ Jon Rothstein on Saturday, Hardaway addressed the recent upheaval in his coaching staff and discussed the upcoming 2024-25 season. Earlier this week, the university announced the departures of assistant coaches Rick Stansbury, Faragi Phillips, Jamie Rosser, and special advisor Demetrius Dyson. These exits contribute to a significant offseason shake-up, with Memphis parting ways with a total of eight staff members.
When asked about the reasons behind these changes, Hardaway opted not to go into details. Instead, he responded to critics who have questioned the frequent turnover in his coaching staff. Since he took over the program in 2018, Hardaway has hired 13 assistant coaches.
“This is all on me,” Hardaway stated. “I don’t follow the conventional path, so don’t compare me to those who do. The coaches who left have moved on to better opportunities. No one was outright fired. A lot happened on both sides, and I stay in touch with everyone who has been part of this program. Others might call it a coaching tree, but for me, it’s about people evolving and progressing.”
NCAA Scrutiny and Allegations
Adding to the program’s troubles, Memphis faces NCAA scrutiny due to an anonymous letter alleging serious violations by Hardaway and his staff. Bluff City Media obtained the letter and forwarded it to the NCAA. The letter claims that Hardaway offered improper benefits to former player DeAndre Williams in 2020 and transfer Emmanuel Akot in 2022. These benefits allegedly included financial payments and housing arrangements.
The letter also alleges that Hardaway was aware of academic misconduct involving former player Malcolm Dandridge during the 2023-24 season. Dandridge was suspended for the final five games after the scandal emerged. Memphis University has reported its findings to the NCAA, which is currently investigating. Potential penalties loom on the horizon.
Looking Ahead
Despite the ongoing investigation and the disappointing end to last season, which saw Memphis miss the NCAA Tournament, Hardaway remains optimistic about the team’s future.
“I’m still on the rise,” Hardaway declared. “I’m here because I want to win, not because I need this job or the money. I could retire right now and be just fine, but I’m committed to doing something special here.”
With the 2024-25 season set to begin on November 4 against Missouri, Hardaway is preparing to lead a revamped team with eight new scholarship players and a restructured coaching staff. He believes that if the team can stay healthy and united, success will follow.
“If we stay together and avoid injuries, we’ll be in good shape,” he said.
However, with the NCAA investigation still unresolved and the pressure mounting, this season could be a defining moment for Hardaway’s tenure at Memphis.
