The Memphis basketball team recently faced a challenging setback in the ever-evolving landscape of college basketball. PJ Haggerty, a key player and the team’s leading scorer, has decided to enter the NCAA Transfer Portal once again. This isn’t just another statistic; it means head coach Penny Hardaway will be parting ways with a talent that averaged nearly 22 points per game last season. The news struck hard, especially considering that this marks Haggerty’s third time navigating the transfer process, following stints at both TCU and Tulsa.
As reported by On3, “BREAKING: Memphis star guard PJ Haggerty has entered the NCAA Transfer Portal,” which sent ripples through the Memphis community and beyond.
When Haggerty joined the ranks of college basketball, his star was already shining bright. Out of high school, he was recognized as a four-star recruit by 247Sports. He ranked as the #126 player in the 2022 class, standing out at #18 among combo guards and #12 in his home state of Texas. His commitment to TCU came with high expectations, and fans were eager to see how he would adapt to the collegiate level.
Scouting reports from his high school days painted a picture of a versatile scorer. “Haggerty is a very good scorer who used to do most of his damage from behind the arc but has also developed a knack for attacking the rim and finishing through contact,” one report highlighted. His aggressive, volume-driven style offered glimpses of potential, although it was clear that he had some aspects to refine—particularly in terms of decision-making and playmaking for his teammates.
As Haggerty transitioned to college, he experienced growing pains. His first season at TCU was brief, playing in just six games before opting to red-shirt. However, his journey took a turn when he transferred to Tulsa, where he found his stride. During his only season with the Golden Hurricane, he averaged an impressive 21.2 points per game. Notably, while his three-point shooting struggled at 28.9%, he proved to be resourceful on the court, discovering various ways to score.
After a commendable season at Tulsa, Haggerty transferred to Memphis, where he continued his growth. This past year, he thrived once again, displaying significant improvement in his shooting metrics, particularly from long distance—finishing the season with a notable 36.4% from beyond the arc. His ability to adapt and improve his game has not gone unnoticed.
Now, with Haggerty’s departure, the Memphis basketball team is left grappling with this unexpected loss. The Tigers had a promising season, clinching the AAC title and earning a five-seed in the NCAA Tournament. However, their journey was abruptly halted in the first round, a reality that adds a layer of frustration for fans and players alike.
The world of college basketball can be unpredictable, especially in today’s transfer-heavy climate. For Memphis and its supporters, the hope is that Haggerty’s next move will ultimately lead him to a situation where he can maximize his potential and continue to grow as both an athlete and a player. The journey may have its ups and downs, but it’s also a testament to the resilience and relentless pursuit of excellence in sports.
The team will need to rally and regroup as they forge ahead, looking to fill the void left by Haggerty and build toward future successes. It’s a reminder that every loss can also be an opportunity for others to step up and shine on the court.
Image Source: PJ Haggerty @ Instagram
