Memphis Tigers Face Early Challenges in Season Opener Against San Francisco

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Memphis Tigers kick off their 2025-26 season today against the San Francisco Dons, despite recent struggles. Coming off a 29-win season, the Tigers faced tough exhibition games, losing both and raising concerns for head coach Penny Hardaway.

In their exhibition games, Memphis allowed 99 and 100 points, prompting Hardaway to express worries about his team’s performance. ‘We’ve got several concerns heading into this game,’ he said. However, these losses do not affect the Tigers’ chances for March Madness.

Sincere Parker, a transfer from McNeese State, is expected to be a key player this season. In early minutes for the Tigers, he has recorded four points and four rebounds. Meanwhile, the Dons opened their season with a strong 98-53 win over UC Santa Cruz, led by Legend Smiley and Mookie Cook.

As Memphis prepares to take on San Francisco, they lead 12-5 early in the game, bolstered by two three-pointers from Ashton Hardaway. However, the Tigers will be without forward Hasan Abdul Hakim due to a quadriceps injury, which has left him at only 75-80% fitness.

The starting lineup for the game includes Dug McDaniel, Curtis Givens III, Sincere Parker, Aaron Bradshaw, and Thierno Sylla. Following the preseason exhibitions, the team must improve significantly as they move forward in the regular season.

The game is being livestreamed, allowing fans to catch the action from FedExForum. The road ahead is long for the Tigers, and today’s performance will be crucial as they build momentum for the season.