Memphis Coach Penny Hardaway Vows to Finish Tough Season

Despite a dismal year, Hardaway remains committed to his team and program.

Feb. 27, 2026 at 11:19am

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Memphis basketball coach Penny Hardaway acknowledges the frustration of fans during his team's difficult season, but says he cannot give up on the current campaign with games still remaining. Hardaway is determined to see the season through and build towards the future, despite the Tigers' struggles.

Why it matters

Hardaway is a beloved figure in Memphis, having starred for the Tigers as a player in the 1990s. His inability to turn the program around quickly has led to growing discontent among the fanbase, but Hardaway believes staying the course is the best path forward.

The details

The Tigers have endured a dismal season, leading many fans to call for Hardaway's job or ask him to look ahead to next year. However, Hardaway says he understands the frustration but cannot abandon the current team with games still to be played.

  • The Tigers have at least three games remaining in the 2025-26 season.

The players

Penny Hardaway

The head coach of the Memphis Tigers basketball team, a former NBA player who is a beloved figure in the city.

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What they’re saying

“I can never look forward (to next season when the Tigers still have at least three games left this season)”

— Penny Hardaway, Head Coach (wn.com)

The takeaway

Hardaway's commitment to seeing out the current season, despite the Tigers' struggles, demonstrates his belief in the long-term future of the program and his desire to build something sustainable in Memphis.