The Memphis Tigers Men’s basketball program recently found itself amidst rumors and speculation surrounding the potential acquisition of highly coveted transfer portal prospect Arthur Kaluma. Early reports had positioned Memphis as the front-runner in the race to secure the former Kansas State Wildcat, generating considerable excitement among the fanbase. However, the latest developments have revealed that the Tigers were never in serious contention to sign Kaluma. Despite this, it is evident that Memphis made a concerted effort to pursue the talented forward, expected to attract significant interest from numerous well-funded programs nationwide.
The Search to Add More Firepower
With the prospects of landing Arthur Kaluma appearing increasingly unlikely, the Memphis Tigers Men’s basketball program has swiftly redirected its focus toward other promising candidates in the transfer portal. They aim to find a player who can replicate David Jones’s impact on the team last season before he declared for the 2024 NBA Draft. According to John Martin of ESPN 92.9, Memphis is actively pursuing UNLV transfer Keylan Boone and St. John’s transfer Glenn Taylor.
Boone, who averaged 12.7 points and 6.8 rebounds per game with the Rebels last season, offers a robust presence on the court. His ability to score at the rim and his rebounding prowess and length make him a versatile asset. Boone’s shooting efficiency from beyond the arc, with a 35.0 three-point percentage, adds another dimension to his game that the Tigers find appealing.
Similarly, a 6’6 forward, Taylor brings valuable traits to the table. While his scoring average of 4.4 points per game and 2.2 rebounds with the Red Storm might not immediately stand out, his impressive 42.4 three-point shooting percentage underscores his potential as a reliable perimeter threat. Taylor’s combination of scoring ability, length, and efficient shooting complements the Tigers’ need for a dynamic wing player.
Taylor is scheduled to visit Memphis this week, and there is optimism that he could commit to the Tigers before the week concludes. However, the ever-changing landscape of NIL deals means that nothing is guaranteed. As Memphis continues its search for an impactful wing player, the situation remains fluid and highly competitive.
Baraka Okojie Injury Setback
In addition to navigating the transfer portal, the Memphis Tigers Men’s basketball program also deals with a significant setback involving Baraka Okojie’s shoulder injury. As first reported by college basketball insider Hitmen Hoops, Okojie recently underwent surgery to repair the damaged shoulder and is expected to be sidelined for four months. This timeline means Okojie should be back on the court by October, just in time for the Tigers’ 2024-2025 campaign opener against Missouri at FedEx Forum.
Okojie, a 6’3 guard who transferred from George Mason, is anticipated to be a defensive stalwart for Memphis. However, the extended layoff due to his injury could impact his ability to build chemistry with his new teammates and fully integrate into the team’s defensive schemes. The lack of practice and game time might delay his adjustment period and affect his readiness to contribute effectively from the start of the season.
Given the importance of maintaining defensive intensity, Memphis must identify other players who can step up and provide similar defensive prowess during Okojie’s recovery. Finding someone who can match his defensive energy and effectiveness will be crucial, especially if Okojie suffers setbacks or isn’t fully recovered when the season begins. This period will test the depth and resilience of the Tigers’ roster, making it essential for the coaching staff to prepare other guards to fill the defensive void and ensure the team remains competitive.
Potential Return of A Familiar Face
In the final segment, we focus on the possible return of a familiar face: former Tiger Johnathan Lawson. Thirteen months after transferring from his hometown Tigers to Creighton, the 6-foot-6 shooter was back in town to participate in the Shelby County Pro-Am games. His spirits were high after dropping 26 points and leading his team to a win in the first game of the new league’s season. Could Lawson, who was 7-of-12 from the 3-point line, have felt so good that he might consider sticking around for a while longer?
Penny Hardaway’s Memphis basketball team has multiple open scholarships and is in the market for a deep threat with some size, a role Lawson could fill perfectly. Currently uncommitted and in the transfer portal, Lawson acknowledged to The Commercial Appeal that a return to Memphis is possible. “It’s a possibility,” Lawson said, revealing that Hardaway and assistant coach Jermaine Johnson reached out to him late last month to discuss the prospect of a homecoming.
As a redshirt freshman with Memphis in 2022-23, Lawson averaged 3.4 points per game in limited playing time but showcased his shooting prowess by hitting 41.3% of his 46 three-point attempts. His move to Creighton saw his numbers decline due to limited playing time behind established players like Baylor Scheierman and Trey Alexander. This led Lawson to enter the transfer portal in April, searching for a new home with options including Little Rock, Arkansas State, Tulane, and UC Santa Barbara. Despite these opportunities, Memphis remains an attractive option. “I’m thinking about it,” Lawson said. “It’s up in the air right now. Like, it’s 50-50 – I don’t know yet. It just depends on how things go.”
If the Tigers decide to bring Lawson back, they must be fully confident in his ability to impact this year’s roster. After failing to qualify for the NCAA tournament last season, the team faces enormous pressure to perform at the highest level. Therefore, any transfers they bring in must be fully bought into the vision of the Memphis basketball program and ready to contribute immediately. Lawson’s shooting ability and familiarity with the program make him a potential asset. Still, his commitment and performance will be key factors in determining if he can help the Tigers meet their high expectations for the upcoming season.
Show Your Support
Show your support for the Memphis Wire on Sports View 360 by exploring and purchasing licensed NCAA fan gear. From stylish Memphis hats, jerseys, and t-shirts to cozy socks and much more, our collection offers a range of options to showcase your team spirit. By purchasing through the text link provided below, you contribute to the funding of the Sports View 360 platform, enabling us to continue providing comprehensive coverage and engaging content. If interested, click the link below and browse our Memphis Tigers fan gear selection. Your support is greatly appreciated.
Memphis Tigers Fan Gear Offers from Fanatics.com
