Memphis basketball coach Penny Hardaway is determined to elevate the Tigers' non-conference schedule by pursuing a high-profile matchup with Duke. In a recent interview, Hardaway emphasized his relentless efforts to secure games against top-tier opponents, highlighting the importance of these contests for both team development and fan engagement. Despite facing challenges in scheduling such matchups, Hardaway remains committed to strengthening Memphis' résumé and enhancing its national profile.

Striving for Excellence: The Pursuit of Elite Competition

Building a Competitive Edge

Coach Penny Hardaway has made it clear that he aims to bolster Memphis' non-conference slate with formidable opponents. This strategy is not only crucial for player growth but also vital for securing a higher NCAA Tournament seed. Since taking over the helm, Hardaway has actively sought out challenging games, including home-and-home series with Texas A&M, Ole Miss, Mississippi State, Missouri, Clemson, and Virginia. These engagements have significantly contributed to the Tigers' success, particularly in their 18-4 record against Power Four opponents since December 2021.The coach believes that facing elite competition is essential for the team's progression. By consistently testing themselves against the best, the Tigers can refine their skills and gain valuable experience. Moreover, these matchups offer fans an opportunity to witness high-caliber basketball right in their backyard, fostering a deeper connection between the team and its supporters.

Ambition Meets Reality: Overcoming Scheduling Challenges

Despite Hardaway's enthusiasm, scheduling high-profile games like Duke presents unique challenges. Many programs are hesitant to face teams as competitive as Memphis, fearing potential losses that could impact their own standings. Hardaway has personally reached out to numerous schools, including Duke, to arrange matches. He expressed interest in playing the Blue Devils either at Cameron Indoor Stadium, in a home-and-home series, or even at a neutral site. However, responses have been lukewarm, with many institutions citing scheduling conflicts or other logistical issues.One notable challenge is the reluctance of top-tier programs to engage in matchups that could jeopardize their rankings. As Memphis continues to rise in the polls—currently ranked 25th in the USA TODAY Coaches Poll and 21st in the Associated Press Top 25—the difficulty of securing these games may increase. Hardaway acknowledges this reality but remains undeterred, emphasizing the need to build a strong résumé to earn respect on the national stage.

Duke Connection: A Potential Path Forward

A significant factor that could aid Hardaway in his pursuit of a Duke matchup is the presence of former Blue Devil Nolan Smith on his coaching staff. Smith, a former All-American guard under legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski, joined Memphis this season as an assistant coach. His connections to Duke could serve as a bridge between the two programs, potentially facilitating discussions and paving the way for a future showdown.During the interview, Hardaway joked about leveraging Smith's influence to broker a deal with Duke. While the situation remains uncertain, the coach's optimism and determination suggest that he will continue exploring all avenues to bring elite competition to Memphis. For Hardaway, the ultimate goal is to provide memorable experiences for fans and players alike, while positioning the Tigers as a formidable force in college basketball.

Advocating for Respect: Elevating the AAC Profile

Beyond the immediate benefits of facing elite opponents, Hardaway's scheduling strategy serves a broader purpose. He has long advocated for greater recognition of the American Athletic Conference (AAC), which he believes deserves more respect from the national community. By consistently competing against top-tier programs, Memphis can showcase the strength and depth of the AAC, challenging preconceived notions and earning the conference a seat at the table.This approach aligns with Hardaway's vision of building a program that consistently competes at the highest level. Through strategic scheduling and relentless pursuit of excellence, he aims to position Memphis as a perennial contender in college basketball. The coach's dedication to this mission underscores his commitment to elevating not just his team, but the entire conference, to new heights.