NCAA Basketball: Duke, Kentucky among the 8 finalists for transfer Johni Broome

The Tigers have already landed a mid-major transfer this week in Elijah McCadden, a 6’4 guard from Georgia Southern that averaged 11.7 ppg and 2.6 apg this past season. He’ll help replace departing guards Landers Nolley and Earl Timberlake, who each transferred out.

The center position is another area of need for Memphis, assuming that Jalen Duren is off to the NBA Draft. Backup big Sam Onu has transferred out, leaving another backup in Malcolm Dandridge. Although the program has had issues with chemistry but after the late run and likely losing Emoni Bates (who just wasn’t a good fit with the team), they’ll be in better shape and with the right pieces, can be a tournament team in 2023.

Broome can be the starting center and unlike some of the previous options, won’t have to worry about trying to fit it with another true five-man. He would fit well with Deandre Williams, assuming he’s back as well. That would be a quality frontcourt that could compete with Houston at the top of the AAC.

That being said, the Tigers are dealing with potential sanctions from the NCAA for alledged recruiting violations and although they’ve had consecutive second-half of the season runs under head coach Penny Hardaway, Memphis hasn’t been able to have a full year without drama and bad losses. That’s what may hold them back from being a serious contender here.