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30 Facts About Memphis Basketball

Ingeberg Nolan

Written by Ingeberg Nolan

Published: 22 Jan 2026

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Source: Espn.com

Memphis Basketball has a rich history filled with thrilling moments and legendary players. From its early days to its current status, the team has always been a source of pride and excitement for fans. Did you know that the Memphis Tigers have made multiple NCAA Tournament appearances? Their journey includes unforgettable games, standout athletes, and a passionate fan base. Whether you're a die-hard supporter or new to the game, these 30 facts will give you a deeper appreciation for Memphis Basketball. Get ready to learn about the highs, lows, and everything in between that makes this team special.

Table of Contents
01The Birth of Memphis Basketball
02Rise to Prominence
03Notable Players
04Memorable Seasons
05Coaching Legends
06Home Court Advantage
07Rivalries and Big Games
08Community Impact
09Recent Developments
10Fun Facts
11Memphis Basketball: A Legacy of Excellence

The Birth of Memphis Basketball

Memphis basketball has a rich history filled with memorable moments and legendary players. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this storied program.

  1. Memphis Tigers' First Game: The Memphis Tigers played their first basketball game on February 14, 1920. They faced off against the University of Tennessee and won 24-20.

  2. First Coach: The first coach of the Memphis Tigers was Zach Curlin. He led the team from 1924 to 1948, establishing a strong foundation for future success.

  3. Early Struggles: In the early years, the team faced many challenges, including limited resources and facilities. Despite this, they persevered and gradually improved.

Rise to Prominence

The Tigers' journey to becoming a powerhouse in college basketball is filled with significant milestones and achievements.

  1. First NCAA Tournament Appearance: The Tigers made their first NCAA Tournament appearance in 1955. They reached the Sweet Sixteen, marking the beginning of their rise to prominence.

  2. Larry Finch Era: Larry Finch, a Memphis native, played for the Tigers from 1970 to 1973. He later became the head coach and led the team to numerous victories, including a Final Four appearance in 1985.

  3. 1985 Final Four: The Tigers reached the Final Four in 1985 under Coach Dana Kirk. They lost to Villanova, who went on to win the championship.

Notable Players

Memphis has produced many talented players who have made significant impacts both in college and professional basketball.

  1. Penny Hardaway: Anfernee "Penny" Hardaway played for the Tigers from 1991 to 1993. He was a two-time All-American and later became an NBA star.

  2. Derrick Rose: Derrick Rose played for Memphis during the 2007-2008 season. He led the team to the NCAA Championship game and was the first overall pick in the 2008 NBA Draft.

  3. Keith Lee: Keith Lee played for the Tigers from 1981 to 1985. He is the all-time leading scorer in Memphis history with 2,408 points.

Memorable Seasons

Several seasons stand out in the history of Memphis basketball, marked by incredible performances and unforgettable moments.

  1. 2007-2008 Season: The Tigers had a remarkable 38-2 record during the 2007-2008 season. They reached the NCAA Championship game but lost to Kansas in overtime.

  2. 1972-1973 Season: The Tigers reached the NCAA Championship game for the first time in 1973. They lost to UCLA, led by Bill Walton.

  3. 2005-2006 Season: Memphis finished the season with a 33-4 record and reached the Elite Eight. They were led by Coach John Calipari and star player Rodney Carney.

Coaching Legends

Several coaches have left an indelible mark on the Memphis basketball program through their leadership and success.

  1. John Calipari: John Calipari coached the Tigers from 2000 to 2009. He led the team to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances, including the 2008 Championship game.

  2. Josh Pastner: Josh Pastner took over as head coach in 2009 after Calipari's departure. He led the team to four NCAA Tournament appearances during his tenure.

  3. Tubby Smith: Tubby Smith coached the Tigers from 2016 to 2018. He brought a wealth of experience and helped develop young talent.

Home Court Advantage

The Tigers have enjoyed a strong home court advantage over the years, thanks to their passionate fan base and impressive facilities.

  1. FedExForum: The Tigers play their home games at the FedExForum, which they share with the NBA's Memphis Grizzlies. The arena has a seating capacity of 18,119.

  2. The Pyramid: Before moving to the FedExForum, the Tigers played at The Pyramid. This iconic venue hosted many memorable games and events.

  3. Record Attendance: The Tigers set a record for the highest attendance at a college basketball game in Tennessee with 20,320 fans in 2008 against Tennessee.

Rivalries and Big Games

Rivalries and big games have added excitement and intensity to Memphis basketball over the years.

  1. Rivalry with Louisville: The rivalry between Memphis and Louisville is one of the most intense in college basketball. The two teams have faced off numerous times, with many games decided by narrow margins.

  2. Battle of the Blues: The Tigers' rivalry with the University of Tennessee, known as the "Battle of the Blues," is another highlight. These games are highly anticipated and fiercely contested.

  3. Historic Wins: Memphis has secured several historic wins, including victories over top-ranked teams like UCLA, Georgetown, and Kansas.

Community Impact

Memphis basketball has had a significant impact on the local community, inspiring young athletes and bringing people together.

  1. Youth Programs: The Tigers have been involved in various youth programs, helping to develop the next generation of basketball talent in Memphis.

  2. Charity Work: Players and coaches have participated in numerous charity events, giving back to the community and supporting important causes.

  3. Economic Impact: The success of the Memphis basketball program has had a positive economic impact on the city, attracting visitors and boosting local businesses.

Recent Developments

The Tigers continue to evolve and achieve new milestones, with recent developments promising an exciting future.

  1. Penny Hardaway's Return: Penny Hardaway returned to Memphis as head coach in 2018. His leadership has brought renewed energy and excitement to the program.

  2. Top Recruits: Under Hardaway, the Tigers have attracted top recruits, including James Wiseman and Precious Achiuwa, who have made significant contributions to the team.

  3. NIT Championship: The Tigers won the NIT Championship in 2021, showcasing their resilience and determination.

Fun Facts

Memphis basketball is filled with interesting tidbits and trivia that add to its rich history.

  1. Mascot: The Tigers' mascot is named Pouncer. He is a beloved figure at games and events, entertaining fans with his antics.

  2. Blue and Gray: The team's colors are blue and gray, symbolizing the university's commitment to excellence and tradition.

  3. Tiger Walk: Before home games, players participate in the "Tiger Walk," greeting fans and building excitement for the game ahead.

Memphis Basketball: A Legacy of Excellence

Memphis basketball has a rich history filled with legendary players, iconic moments, and unwavering fan support. From the early days of the Memphis Tigers to the rise of the Memphis Grizzlies, the city has always been a basketball powerhouse. The Tigers' numerous NCAA tournament appearances and the Grizzlies' memorable playoff runs have cemented Memphis as a key player in the basketball world.

The passion of the fans, the dedication of the players, and the strategic brilliance of the coaches all contribute to this legacy. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, there's no denying the impact Memphis basketball has had on the sport. As the teams continue to evolve and new stars emerge, the future looks bright for Memphis basketball. Keep an eye on this city; it's always ready to surprise and inspire.

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