Memphis loses to Tulsa in clunker 

Neither team played well, but the Tigers were plagued by unforced errors and poor shooting again.

Related story: Box score

Memphis Tigers men’s basketball coach Penny Hardaway has inked a five-year extension worth $12.25 million, the school announced Monday. 

DeAndre Williams will be in the starting lineup for the Tigers, who want to deliver Tulsa some payback.

The Grizzlies and Tigers will play home basketball games without fans until further notice. This decision comes under the direction of public health officials. 

Memphis still has issues in its game, but Williams’ appearance on the court is a welcome development.

The Evansville transfer became eligible to play just hours before Memphis and Tulane tipped off Wednesday. For a beleaguered Tigers team, it may have been just in time.

Dec. 16, 2020: Memphis vs. Tulane in New Orleans

Transfer DeAndre Williams, declared eligible just hours before the game, made an immediate impression.

Related story: As much as he brings to the court, there’s DeAndre Williams as a leader

Related story: Box score: Memphis 80, Tulane 74

Memphis enters conference play on Wednesday with plenty of issues, including point guard play and “hero ball” tendencies. 

Hardaway called it his “hardest loss.” Memphis fans may share that sentiment. There also is a seed of concern that he might not be able to get this team to the NCAA tournament.

The Tigers are feeling good about their chemistry heading into Saturday’s game against Auburn.

The Tigers’ leading scorer was injured in their home game against Mississippi Valley State on Tuesday. 

Coach Penny Hardaway says the team is heading in the right direction. Alex Lomax feels better about his role. And that blowout felt good. But is it enough?

The Tigers exhibited improved passing, but 3-point shooting remains a weakness.

Related Story: Hardaway says Memphis gets a ‘B’ — but is that good enough?

It’s still a small sample size, but three players are commonalities in the lineups with a positive plus-minus.

Jeffries exploded for a 15-point outburst in Memphis’ win over Central Arkansas, a long-awaited breakout performance in which the sophomore forward appeared to exorcise the demons that have terrorized him this season. 

Landers Nolley II scored 23 points, his third game with 20-plus points. 

Related Story: D.J. Jeffries finds his way, and Memphis is better for it.

Until the NCAA issues a final ruling, Williams can practice with the Tigers but remains sidelined during games.

The game provided Penny Hardaway more insight as to who is best suited to what role, and when.