This Friday, the Memphis Men’s and Women’s basketball programs are hosting the Blue and Grey Showcase.
Over the past couple of years, the programs have experimented with different events before the season. These have included a block party in 2022 and Student Madness in 2023.
While these events introduced fresh ideas, they’ve received mixed reviews. The block party brought a fun, casual vibe, and Student Madness aimed to engage the student body more directly, but neither seemed to capture the electric energy Memphis Madness once brought.
Given the success and tradition of Memphis Madness, it’s worth considering for the program to bring it back.
Fan Engagement
Memphis Madness attracted both die-hard fans and casual supporters.
As a free event, it opened the doors to many who might not have previously been invested in the teams, offering a fun and accessible way for them to experience the excitement of Memphis basketball. This helped build a stronger connection between the teams and the city, with many attendees likely feeling inspired to catch a real game afterward.
For the die-hard fans, Memphis Madness was an ideal opportunity to connect with the new teams. Penny Hardaway is bringing in 13 new players this season. Memphis Madness would be the perfect event to introduce these fresh faces to the fanbase. It would help build early support and familiarity before the season even starts.
Branding
Memphis Madness played a key role in establishing the identity of Memphis basketball.
More than just a talent showcase, it was a celebration of the city’s culture, energy, and passion for the sport. By bringing back the event, the program can reinforce its brand as a powerhouse in college basketball, both on and off the court.
Moreover, the event showcased Memphis’s ability to create a show-stopping experience, rivaling the biggest names in college basketball.
With celebrity performances and an electric atmosphere, Memphis Madness elevated the Tigers beyond being just a competitive team, solidifying them as a major brand in the college basketball world.
Recruiting
While Memphis basketball no longer focuses heavily on recruiting freshmen, Memphis Madness remains a valuable tool for attracting talent.
The event’s high-energy atmosphere and passionate fanbase help set the program apart, showing recruits the excitement and support they can expect from the city.
