The Greatest Memphis Basketball Players of All Time
- 1Age: 52
Memphis Tigers: 1991 - 1993
Anfernee "Penny" Hardaway quickly became a standout member of the Memphis basketball program when he signed with the team in the early 1990s. Hardaway, a hometown hero, was an electrifying point guard known for his quickness, ball-handling skills, and uncanny ability to elevate teammates' games. During his two seasons with the Tigers, he earned First-team All-American honors and won the Great Midwest Conference Player of the Year award. Penny's legacy is still felt today, as he returned to coach the team in 2018, further solidifying his place in Memphis basketball history.
More Penny Hardaway
- Dig Deeper...345 Famous Cancer Celebrities
- #70 of 289 onThe Top NBA Players Of All Time
- #16 of 117 onThe Best NBA Players With No Championship Rings
- 2Age: 35
Memphis Tigers: 2007 - 2008
Derrick Rose joined the Memphis Tigers through a highly regarded recruiting class in the late 2000s. A lightning-fast point guard, Rose was known for his slashing drives to the basket and unparalleled athleticism. In his only season with the team, he led the Tigers to the NCAA Championship game and earned NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player honors. Although Memphis ultimately fell short in the title game, Rose's impact on the program is undeniable, cementing his position as one of Memphis' greatest players.
More Derrick Rose- #132 of 289 onThe Top NBA Players Of All Time
- #27 of 117 onThe Best NBA Players With No Championship Rings
- #19 of 98 onThe Best NBA Players Of The 2000s
- 3Age: 61
Memphis Tigers: 1981 - 1985
Keith Lee, a dynamic power forward, joined the Memphis basketball program in the early 1980s and immediately made his presence felt on the court. Known for his tenacious rebounding and ability to score from various positions on the floor, Lee helped propel the Tigers to multiple NCAA tournament appearances, including a deep run in his freshman year. During his tenure with the program, he became a four-time All-American and won the Metro Conference Player of the Year award three times. Keith Lee's versatile playstyle and dominance on the court make him one of Memphis' all-time greats.
- 4Dec. at 60 (1951-2011)
Memphis Tigers: 1969 - 1973
Arguably the most beloved Tiger in Memphis history, Larry Finch not only starred on the court but also later returned to coach the program. The local product joined the team in the early 1970s, contributing to the team's success with his exceptional scoring ability at the guard position and unbreakable determination. Finch's finest moment came when he led the Tigers to the 1973 NCAA Championship game, where they narrowly lost to powerhouse UCLA. Despite the loss, his legendary play during the season, along with his guiding presence as a coach, cements Larry Finch's status as one of Memphis' greatest players.
- 5Age: 71
Memphis Tigers: 1972 - 1973
Few players in Memphis basketball history have brought as much excitement to the court as Larry "Special K" Kenon. Joining the program in the early 1970s, Kenon was a high-flying forward known for his incredible leaping ability and thunderous dunks. Playing alongside Larry Finch, Kenon helped lead the Tigers to the 1973 NCAA Championship game. While the team fell short, Kenon's exciting play earned him a lasting place in the hearts of Memphis basketball fans and in the annals of the program's history.
- 6Dec. at 34 (1975-2010)
Memphis Tigers: 1994 - 1996
A versatile forward-center, Lorenzen Wright signed with Memphis in the mid-1990s and quickly established himself as a force on both ends of the court. Known for his shot-blocking capabilities and relentless hustle, Wright brought energy and intensity to the team. During his time in the program, he earned First-team All-Conference USA honors and helped lead the team to multiple NCAA tournament appearances. Though tragically taken before his time, Wright's impact on Memphis basketball is still felt today, and his name remains synonymous with the program's greatness.
More Lorenzen Wright- #33 of 90 onThe Best Memphis Grizzlies of All Time
- #22 of 22 onThe Best NCAA Power Forwards of the 90s
- #21 of 25 onThe Best NCAA Centers of the 90s
- 7Age: 55
Memphis Tigers: 1987 - 1991
The epitome of a true floor general, Elliot Perry joined the Memphis basketball program in the late 1980s and led the team with his superb ball-handling skills and court vision. As an unselfish point guard, Perry was often the catalyst for the team's success during his tenure. He earned two-time All-Great Midwest Conference Team honors and was awarded the Great Midwest Conference Player of the Year during his time with the Tigers. His leadership and ability to control the tempo of the game make Perry a standout figure in the history of Memphis basketball.
More Elliot Perry- #18 of 32 onThe Best NBA Players from Tennessee
- #68 of 125 onThe Best Phoenix Suns of All Time
- #26 of 50 onThe Best Charlotte Hornets Point Guards of All Time
- 8Age: 37
Memphis Tigers: 2005 - 2008
A smooth and versatile wing player, Chris Douglas-Roberts made a significant impact upon joining the Memphis program in the mid-2000s. Known for his scoring prowess, Douglas-Roberts could effortlessly put the ball in the basket from anywhere on the court. He was instrumental in the team's run to the 2008 NCAA Championship game, earning First-team All-American and Conference USA Player of the Year honors in his final season. Chris Douglas-Roberts' offensive skills and clutch performances make him a fan favorite and one of the greatest players in Memphis basketball history.
- #96 of 98 onThe Best Charlotte Hornets Players of All Time
- #59 of 93 onThe Best NBA Players Who Played Overseas
- #16 of 32 onThe Best NCAA Shooting Guards of the 2000s
- 9Age: 34
Memphis Tigers: 2008 - 2009
From the moment Tyreke Evans arrived on the Memphis campus in the late 2000s, it was evident he was a special talent. A dynamic combo guard with elite scoring ability, Evans could effortlessly take over a game single-handedly. In his lone season with the program, he won the Conference USA Player of the Year award and was named a Third-team All-American. Though his time with the Tigers was brief, Tyreke Evans' exceptional play left an indelible mark on the program and solidified his status as one of Memphis' all-time greats.
- 10Age: 33
Memphis Tigers: 2010 - 2012
As one of the most dynamic scorers in Memphis history, Will Barton's impact on the program is undeniable. Joining the team in the early 2010s, Barton quickly became one of the nation's top shooting guards with his ability to score from beyond the arc or slash to the basket off the dribble. His stellar play led to him being named First-team All-Conference USA and claiming the Conference USA Freshman of the Year award. Will Barton's offensive prowess and passion for the game place him among the greatest Memphis basketball players of all time.
More Will Barton- #133 of 155 onThe Best NBA Players Right Now
- #17 of 39 onThe Best NBA Players from Maryland
- #56 of 59 onThe Best Current NBA Shooting Guards
- 11Age: 60
Memphis Tigers: 1983 - 1986
Standing 7-feet tall and possessing a rare combination of size and skill, William Bedford was a force to be reckoned with during his time at Memphis in the mid-1980s. A dominant shot-blocker, Bedford used his incredible length to alter opponents' shots and control the paint defensively. His imposing presence in the paint helped lead the Tigers to multiple NCAA tournament appearances, culminating in a deep run during his final season. William Bedford's defensive prowess and impact on the program make him one of the all-time greats in Memphis basketball history.
- 12Age: 58
Memphis Tigers: 1984 - 1987
A physical and aggressive wing player, Vincent Askew joined the Memphis program in the mid-1980s and made an immediate impact with his relentless play. Known for his defensive acumen, Askew's tenacity and gritty style quickly endeared him to fans and coaches alike. During his time at Memphis, he earned a spot on the All-Metro Conference Team, and his commitment to winning left a lasting impression on the program. Vincent Askew's scrappy style and dedication to the game make him a standout figure in Memphis basketball history.
- 13Age: 40
Memphis Tigers: 2002 - 2006
Boasting a combination of size, speed, and leaping ability, Rodney Carney was an exciting wing player during his time at Memphis in the mid-2000s. Known for his high-flying acrobatics and ability to score from the perimeter, Carney was a fan favorite who consistently energized the crowd with his electrifying play. He twice earned First-team All-Conference USA honors and was named to the Conference USA All-Tournament Team during his career with the Tigers. Rodney Carney's exhilarating style of play and contributions to the program place him among the all-time greats in Memphis basketball history.
- 14
Andre Turner
Age: 60Memphis Tigers: 1982 - 1986
The Little General Andre Turner was a lightning-fast point guard who controlled the floor for the Memphis Tigers in the mid-1980s. A tenacious defender and sublime passer, Turner's leadership was instrumental in guiding the Tigers to multiple NCAA tournament appearances. He earned back-to-back Metro Conference Tournament MVP honors, and his stellar play earned him a spot on the Conference USA 25th Anniversary Team. Andre Turner's ability to command the court places him among the best to ever play for the Memphis program.
15Precious Achiuwa
Memphis Tigers: 2019–present
A powerful forward with impressive athleticism, Precious Achiuwa burst onto the Memphis basketball scene in the late 2010s and quickly made his mark on the program. Known for his shot-blocking ability and relentless rebounding, Achiuwa was a force on both ends of the court. In his one season with the Tigers, he claimed the American Athletic Conference (AAC) Player of the Year and Freshman of the Year awards, as well as being named to the First-team All-AAC. While his time at Memphis was brief, Achiuwa's impact on the program will long be remembered, and he remains one of the program's top players.
- 16Dec. at 32 (1964-1997)
Memphis Tigers: 1982-1986
An explosive forward with a knack for scoring, Baskerville Holmes brought excitement to the Memphis basketball program in the early-to-mid-1980s. Holmes dazzled fans with his high-flying dunks and smooth touch around the rim, making him a matchup problem for opponents. He earned a spot on the All-Metro Conference Team during his time with the Tigers and played an integral role in guiding the team to multiple NCAA tournament appearances. Baskerville Holmes' dynamic offensive game and impact on the program solidify him as one of the all-time greats in Memphis basketball history.
- 17
Sylvester Gray
Age: 56Memphis Tigers: 1986 - 1988
An electrifying athlete with a nose for the ball, Sylvester Gray joined the Memphis basketball program in the mid-1980s and made an immediate impact. Gray's uncanny ability to fly through the air for highlight-reel dunks and blocks quickly became his trademark, endearing him to fans and teammates alike. A two-time All-Metro Conference selection, Gray was a key player during the Tigers' deep NCAA tournament run in his final season. Sylvester Gray's exciting style of play and contributions to the program make him a memorable figure in the history of Memphis basketball.
- 18Age: 40
Memphis Tigers: 2004 - 2008
A fierce competitor and elite rebounder, Joey Dorsey made a lasting impact on the Memphis basketball program in the mid-to-late 2000s. Standing 6-foot-9 and packed with muscle, Dorsey dominated the paint with his physicality and relentless work on the boards. During his time with the Tigers, he was twice named Conference USA Defensive Player of the Year and helped guide the team to the 2008 NCAA Championship game. Joey Dorsey's tenacity and commitment to winning make him a memorable figure in the history of Memphis basketball.
- 19Age: 49
Memphis Tigers: 1993 - 1997
A gifted and versatile forward, Cedric Henderson made a significant impact during his time with the Memphis basketball program in the mid-1990s. With a combination of size and skill, Henderson's ability to score inside and out made him a matchup nightmare for opponents. He earned First-team All-Conference USA honors during his tenure with the Tigers, as well as being named to the Conference USA All-Defensive Team. Cedric Henderson's all-around game and dedication to winning place him among the greats in Memphis basketball history.
- 20
Ronnie Robinson
Dec. at 53 (1951-2004)Memphis Tigers: 1970-73
A fierce competitor and hard-nosed player, Ronnie Robinson brought intensity and passion to the Memphis basketball program in the early 1970s. As a versatile forward with a relentless motor, Robinson played a pivotal role in the Tigers' success during his tenure, including a run to the 1973 NCAA Championship game alongside Larry Finch and Larry Kenon. His outstanding play earned him a spot on the All-Metro Conference Team, and his commitment to winning left a lasting impression on the program. Ronnie Robinson's tenacity and impact on the court make him one of the all-time greats in Memphis basketball history.
- 21Age: 51
Memphis Tigers: 1991-1995
As a 6-foot-9 power forward, David Vaughn III was known for his incredible athleticism and defensive prowess while playing for the Memphis Tigers in the early 1990s. Quick off his feet and with an uncanny ability to block shots, Vaughn was a force to be reckoned with in the paint. His efforts on the defensive end did not go unnoticed, as he was twice named to the Conference USA All-Defensive Team during his tenure. David Vaughn III's impact on the defensive side of the ball firmly places him among the greats in Memphis basketball history.
- 22
John Gunn
Memphis Tigers: 1974-1977
A versatile forward who joined the Memphis program in the late 1970s, John Gunn was known for his ability to score both inside and out, making him a matchup problem for opponents. His versatility and smooth shooting touch made him an integral part of the team's success during his tenure, including multiple trips to the NCAA tournament. Gunn earned All-Metro Conference honors during his time with the program, and his contributions on the court have earned him a lasting place in Memphis basketball history.
- 23
Antonio Anderson
Age: 38Memphis Tigers: 2005 - 2009
A hard-nosed and versatile guard, Antonio Anderson played a pivotal role in the success of the Memphis basketball program in the late 2000s. Known for his defensive tenacity and clutch scoring ability, Anderson was the epitome of a winner, helping the Tigers reach the 2008 NCAA Championship game. He earned a spot on the Conference USA All-Defensive Team and was twice named to the Conference USA All-Tournament Team during his time with the program. Antonio Anderson's winning mentality and commitment to excellence make him one of the greatest players in Memphis basketball history.
- 24Age: 41
Memphis Tigers: 2001 - 2002
A highly touted prospect coming out of high school, Dajuan Wagner's arrival at Memphis in the early 2000s was met with great anticipation, and he certainly lived up to the hype. As an elite scorer with endless range, Wagner instantly became one of the most feared offensive threats in college basketball. In his lone season with the Tigers, he was named Conference USA Freshman of the Year, as well as earning First-team All-Conference USA honors. Dajuan Wagner's tantalizing skill set and impact on the program make him one of the greatest players in Memphis basketball history.
- 25Age: 44
Memphis Tigers: 2001 - 2004
A fearless point guard known for his exceptional vision and ability to control the game's tempo, Antonio Burks joined the Memphis basketball program in the early 2000s. His steady hand at the helm guided the Tigers to multiple NCAA tournament appearances and deep runs during his time with the team. Burks was named First-team All-Conference USA in his senior season, exemplifying his skill and impact on the program. Antonio Burks' leadership and command of the court firmly place him among the greats in Memphis basketball history.
- 26
D.J. Stephens
Age: 33Memphis Tigers: 2009 - 2013
An athletic marvel and high-flying wing player, D.J. Stephens captivated Memphis basketball fans during his time with the program in the early 2010s. Known for his jaw-dropping leaping ability and acrobatic dunks, Stephens provided an infectious energy that lifted the team's play. He was not only an offensive spark plug but also an elite shot-blocker, earning him the Conference USA Defensive Player of the Year award in his final season. D.J. Stephens' extraordinary athleticism and impact on both ends of the court make him a memorable figure in the history of Memphis basketball.
- 27
James Wiseman
Memphis Tigers: 2019–present
One of the most highly anticipated recruits in Memphis basketball history, James Wiseman arrived on campus in 2019 with sky-high expectations. A supremely skilled 7-footer, Wiseman possessed a rare combination of size, athleticism, and finesse for a player his age. Although his tenure with the program was brief due to eligibility issues, Wiseman’s undeniable talent and potential have secured his place among the most talented players to ever don a Memphis uniform.
- 28
Jeremiah Martin
Memphis Tigers: 2015–2019
A hometown hero who brought energy and excitement to the Memphis basketball program in the mid-to-late 2010s, Jeremiah Martin was an electrifying point guard known for his relentless work ethic and passion for the game. Martin's scoring prowess only seemed to increase as the stakes got higher, making him a nightmare for opponents in clutch situations. During his time with the Tigers, he earned First-team All-AAC honors and led the team to multiple postseason appearances. Jeremiah Martin's dedication to the program and thrilling style of play firmly place him among the all-time greats in Memphis basketball history.
- 29
Michael Wilson
Memphis Tigers: 1994-1996
A high-flying forward with a penchant for rim-rattling dunks, Michael Wilson provided plenty of excitement for Memphis basketball fans in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Nicknamed "The Helicopter" for his soaring leaps, Wilson's aerial acrobatics and tenacious play endeared him to fans and teammates alike. His exceptional play earned him a spot on the All-Metro Conference Team, and his contributions to the program leave a lasting legacy in Memphis basketball history.
- 30
Robert Dozier
Age: 38Memphis Tigers: 2005 - 2009
A long and versatile forward with a knack for defensive play, Robert Dozier was a key component of Memphis' success in the late 2000s. His shot-blocking ability and determination to lock down opponents made him an indispensable asset to the team. As a testament to his defensive prowess, Dozier earned Conference USA Defensive Player of the Year honors and was named to the Conference USA All-Defensive Team during his time with the Tigers. Robert Dozier's impact on the defensive end leaves a lasting legacy in Memphis basketball history.
