NCAA Basketball: Updated way-too-early 2019-20 top-25
12. Memphis Tigers
Memphis is on the rise. With head coach Penny Hardaway leading the way, the excitement buzzing around the program is near an all-time high. The former star has not been at the helm of the program long but he is dominating on the recruiting trail. Heading into this season, the Tigers are bringing in the No. 1 overall recruiting class in the country and that is clearly the top reason for their inclusion in the top-25. While there are still some questions regarding Hardaway’s coaching ability at the college level and the inexperience of the roster, the talent level is obvious.
James Wiseman is the best player joining the program as he is the No. 1 ranked recruit in the country. He is a true seven-footer that runs the floor extremely well and boasts the ability to score and defend at a high level. In addition, forwards Precious Achiuwa and D.J. Jeffries look likely to hold down major roles as well. To round out the main newcomers, Boogie Ellis and Lester Quinones are polished scorers in the backcourt as well.
Related Story. Breaking down Memphis' 2019 recruiting class. light
It is clear that the Tigers will be one of the youngest teams in the nation. The vast majority of their roster consists of underclassmen and their inexperience could show at times during the season. With that said, Memphis should be the heavy favorite to win the AAC and regarded as one of the top teams in the nation.