Over recent seasons, Memphis has lacked a freshman who could make a significant impact on the court. However, if last night was any indication, things may be changing. Freshman Jared Harris appears determined to compete and earn minutes in the rotation.
As the team’s lone freshman, Harris made a strong impression with his high-energy defense, which translated into easy scoring opportunities for the Tigers.
Background
Harris arrived on campus as a 4-star recruit, ranked among the top 100 players in his class by 247 Sports. The 6’2″ guard from Silsbee, Texas, chose Memphis over notable programs like Alabama, Kansas, and Illinois. Known for being a true shooting guard, Harris brings a combination of length, athleticism, and shooting ability that could make an immediate impact on the team.
Offseason
Before the St. Jude Classic tip-off, Harris was already turning heads in practices. Coach Hardaway emphasized Harris’s length and quickness during AAC Media Days, noting that these attributes could help Memphis secure wins this season. Harris also made a strong impression during Memphis’ Pro Day, contributing to the reserves’ narrow victory over the starters.
“Penny, I feel like, is one of the greatest coaches of all time — to me,” said Harris, expressing his full commitment to the culture that Memphis Basketball is striving to build.
UNC Scrimmage
In just 13 minutes of action, Harris demonstrated why he’s a serious contender to crack Memphis’ rotation this season.
When North Carolina began to pull away, the freshman intercepted a pass at half-court, turning it into a quick assist that cut the lead back to two possessions.
Making winning plays is what earns any player, regardless of age, a spot on the court. Harris is poised to provide Memphis with a spark off the bench in many games this upcoming season.
Harris’s final stat line against North Carolina included 4 points, 2 steals, 2 assists, and a rebound.
