NCAA Basketball Recruiting: Pros and cons of Jalen Warley final 6 teams

Memphis Tigers

Pros

The transfer of 6th man Tyler Harris, along with the team missing out on Florida point guard transfer Andrew Nembhard this offseason has them still in the market for a top-tier ball-handler in the 2021 class. As one of the best pro guards of the modern era, head coach Penny Hardaway is very appealing for someone like Warley to consider. After landing five-star big man Moussa Cisse, the Tigers are looking for a mega future recruiting class to get back to the top of the AAC.

Memphis does have some solid returning guards in Alex Lomax, Boogie Ellis, and Lester Quinones. But Warley would be an upgrade on the perimeter and make the case to be a starter as a freshman. He fits well with the team’s underrated defensive system and could easily thrive in the AAC.

Cons

Warley isn’t the only five-star guard prospect the Tigers are targeting, with both JD Davison and Jaden Hardy also considering the program. And while this recruit will decide first among the three, that may not deter one of the other two from also picking Memphis. It certainly would help boost the overall talent on the roster but it may also have Warley play either off the ball or simply second-fiddle to another talented guard.

Memphis also has shown a willingness to land top-tier transfers in the offseason, including Landers Nolley and Deandre Williams. Both are likely gone after next season if they can get a waiver to play in 2020-21 but if not, will be focal points on the following team. The biggest concern for this prospect to consider is a crowded backcourt that doesn’t guarantee him playing time out the gate.