University of Memphis forward Precious Achiuwa passes the ball in the paint during a home game against Tulane University at the FedExForum Dec. 30, 2019. (Patrick Lantrip/Daily Memphian)
University of Memphis forward DJ Jeffries (0) slams home the ball during a home game against Tulane University Dec. 30, 2019. (Patrick Lantrip/Daily Memphian)
University of Memphis forward DJ Jeffries (0) drives to the basket during a home game against Tulane University at the FedExForum Dec. 30, 2019. (Patrick Lantrip/Daily Memphian)
University of Memphis guard Alex Lomax (2) goes in for a layup during a home game against Tulane University at the FedExForum Dec. 30, 2019. (Patrick Lantrip/Daily Memphian)
Former University of Memphis forward K.J. Lawson (1), now with Tulane University, goes to the basket during a game against at the FedExForum Dec. 30, 2019. (Patrick Lantrip/Daily Memphian)
University of Memphis guard Alex Lomax (2) calls off a screen during a home game against Tulane University at the FedExForum Dec. 30, 2019. (Patrick Lantrip/Daily Memphian)
The University of Memphis band reacts to a call during a home game against Tulane University at the FedExForum Dec. 30, 2019. (Patrick Lantrip/Daily Memphian)
University of Memphis forward DJ Jeffries (0) drives to the basket during a home game against Tulane University at the FedExForum Dec. 30, 2019. (Patrick Lantrip/Daily Memphian)
University of Memphis forward Precious Achiuwa drives to the basket during a home game against Tulane University at the FedExForum Dec. 30, 2019. (Patrick Lantrip/Daily Memphian)
University of Memphis head coach Penny Hardaway reacts to what guard Tyler Harris (1) says during a timeout against Tulane University at the FedExForum Dec. 30, 2019. (Patrick Lantrip/Daily Memphian)
Tigers beat Tulane in intense conference opener
Penny Hardaway told his young group that it wouldn't be easy. He was right.