Memphis Dismisses Guard Hasan Abdul Akim for Repeated Violations

Coach Penny Hardaway cites "repeated violations of team rules" in decision to cut senior guard

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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The University of Memphis has dismissed senior guard Hasan Abdul Akim from the men's basketball team after a series of violations of team rules, including missing practices due to undisclosed illnesses. Head Coach Penny Hardaway announced the decision, stating the team's focus remains on players "committed to doing things the right way." The university said it will continue to support Akim academically as he pursues his degree and provide access to medical resources as needed.

Why it matters

Akim's dismissal comes as the Tigers are fighting to improve their standing in the American Athletic Conference, currently sitting in fourth place. The loss of a veteran guard who provided depth and scoring could impact the team's performance down the stretch, though Hardaway is hoping to rally the remaining players committed to the program's standards.

The details

Akim, a senior guard, has had a tumultuous tenure with the Tigers, dealing with injuries and undisclosed illnesses that have limited his availability. When healthy, he averaged 6.2 points and 4.1 rebounds per game. However, Hardaway cited "repeated violations of team rules," including not showing up to practice after a recent illness, as the reason for dismissing Akim from the team.

  • On February 18, 2026, Head Coach Penny Hardaway announced Akim's dismissal from the team.
  • Akim was also dismissed from UTRGV in January 2025 by Head Coach Kahil Fennell.

The players

Penny Hardaway

Head Coach of the University of Memphis men's basketball team.

Hasan Abdul Akim

A senior guard who was dismissed from the University of Memphis men's basketball team for repeated violations of team rules.

Kahil Fennell

Former Head Coach of the UTRGV men's basketball team, who dismissed Akim from the team in January 2025.

Zach Davis

A senior guard for the University of Memphis men's basketball team who was recently reinstated after missing several games.

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What they’re saying

“After repeated violations of team rules, we've made the decision to move forward without Hasan. Our focus remains on the young men in our locker room who are committed to doing things the right way and working toward a championship.”

— Penny Hardaway, Head Coach, University of Memphis (on3.com)

“While Abdul Hakim will no longer be a member of the basketball program, the University of Memphis will continue to support him academically as he pursues his degree. The department will also provide access to treatment and sports medicine resources as needed.”

— Kirk Downs, Tiger Men's Basketball Integrated Communications Director, University of Memphis (on3.com)

What’s next

The University of Memphis men's basketball team will face the South Florida Bulls on Thursday, February 20th, in a crucial American Athletic Conference matchup. The Tigers, currently fourth in the conference standings, will need to win out if they hope to earn a bye in the conference tournament.

The takeaway

Akim's dismissal underscores the importance of team discipline and commitment for the Memphis Tigers, who are fighting to improve their standing in the conference. The loss of a veteran guard could impact the team's performance, but Hardaway is hoping the remaining players will rally around the program's standards and work towards a championship.