Busting Brackets
Fansided

Memphis Basketball: 6 guards to target after missing out on Jaden Bradley

By Tristan Freeman

Mar 17, 2023; Columbus, OH, USA; Memphis Tigers head coach Penny Hardaway reacts to apply in the first half against the Florida Atlantic Owls at Nationwide Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 17, 2023; Columbus, OH, USA; Memphis Tigers head coach Penny Hardaway reacts to apply in the first half against the Florida Atlantic Owls at Nationwide Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports /
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Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets guard Deivon SmithBrett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets guard Deivon SmithBrett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /

Elijah Hawkins – Howard Bison

2022-23 season stats: 12.9 ppg and 6.0 apg

The 5’11 guard is a two-year starter and former MEAC Rookie of the Year that has been one of the best passers in college hoops. Hawkins shot 47% from three-point range and showed he can score as well, including a season-opening 14 points against Kentucky. The guard went for a season-high 20 points and nine assists on the road at Coppin State.

There has historically been a concern with MEAC and SWAC transfers moving to the power conference level but RJ Cole, a former Howard player himself, ended up leading UConn in scoring a year ago. Hawkins passing ability alone should be able to translate and he could even be just as good as Davis was this season.

Deivon Smith – Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets

2022-23 season stats: 8.0 ppg, 5.6 rpg, and 3.7 apg

Smith is a 6’1 guard and former four-star prospect that isn’t much of a shooter but makes up for it with defense and all-around play. He was on triple-double watch for several games, including 16 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists against Notre Dame.

Smith did deal with some health issues, missing the last eight games of the season with an ankle injury. Memphis has already taken one ACC guard in Mills and having another veteran playmaker like the former Yellow Jacket makes sense, though there would be some offensive concerns.