Memphis Tigers Hire Gabriel Harris as First-Ever General Manager

Harris brings NBA G League experience to help build championship program under Coach Penny Hardaway.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 10:35pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a fragmented, geometric basketball court scene with players in motion, using bold colors to capture the dynamic energy of the sport.The Memphis Tigers' new GM brings a modern, data-driven approach to roster construction and player development.Memphis Today

The University of Memphis men's basketball program has hired Gabriel Harris as its first-ever general manager. Harris joins the Tigers after a successful tenure as general manager of the Stockton Kings, the NBA G League affiliate of the Sacramento Kings, where he was responsible for roster construction, contract negotiations, team management, and day-to-day basketball operations.

Why it matters

The hiring of Harris as general manager represents a new approach for the Memphis Tigers, who are looking to build a championship-caliber program under head coach Penny Hardaway. Harris' experience in the NBA G League and his expertise in roster management, contract negotiations, and player personnel evaluation will be crucial in supporting Hardaway's vision for the program.

The details

Harris spent the last three seasons with the Stockton Kings, including the last two as general manager. During his time, he helped construct a roster that produced the G League's best regular season record at 24-10. Under his leadership, Stockton saw multiple players advance to the NBA, including Mason Jones, Jaylen Nowell, and Keon Ellis.

  • Harris will join the Memphis program following the conclusion of Stockton's postseason run in the 2026 NBA G League Playoffs.
  • Prior to his time in Stockton, Harris spent nine years with adidas as a marketing executive.

The players

Anfernee "Penny" Hardaway

The head coach of the University of Memphis men's basketball team, who announced the hiring of Gabriel Harris as the program's first-ever general manager.

Gabriel Harris

The new general manager of the University of Memphis men's basketball program, who previously served as the general manager of the Stockton Kings in the NBA G League.

Johnny Dawkins

The former head coach of the Stanford men's basketball team, where Harris played from 2009-2012.

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What they’re saying

“We are thrilled to welcome Gabriel Harris to Memphis. Gabriel brings a modern approach and new perspective to roster management, along with valuable experience at the professional level. His leadership and vision will be instrumental as we continue to build a championship-caliber program.”

— Anfernee "Penny" Hardaway, Head Coach, University of Memphis

“Sacramento and Stockton have been incredibly special. I have a deep appreciation for the Sacramento Kings organization and everyone with the Stockton Kings who made it feel like home. I'm proud of what we built and grateful for the people who were part of it. I'm excited for this next chapter with the University of Memphis. The history, expectations, and tradition of Memphis basketball are what drew me to this opportunity, and I look forward to working with Coach Hardaway to help build a highly successful program.”

— Gabriel Harris, General Manager, University of Memphis

What’s next

Harris will join the Memphis program following the conclusion of Stockton's postseason run in the 2026 NBA G League Playoffs.

The takeaway

The hiring of Gabriel Harris as the first-ever general manager of the Memphis Tigers men's basketball program represents a strategic move by head coach Penny Hardaway to bring in an experienced professional with a proven track record of building successful rosters and player development. This new role will be crucial in supporting Hardaway's vision for the program and elevating Memphis to championship contention.