Dec. 16, 2020: Memphis vs. Tulane in New Orleans

Transfer DeAndre Williams, declared eligible just hours before the game, made an immediate impression.

Related story: As much as he brings to the court, there’s DeAndre Williams as a leader

Related story: Box score: Memphis 80, Tulane 74

Memphis enters conference play on Wednesday with plenty of issues, including point guard play and “hero ball” tendencies. 

Hardaway called it his “hardest loss.” Memphis fans may share that sentiment. There also is a seed of concern that he might not be able to get this team to the NCAA tournament.

The Tigers are feeling good about their chemistry heading into Saturday’s game against Auburn.

The Tigers’ leading scorer was injured in their home game against Mississippi Valley State on Tuesday. 

Coach Penny Hardaway says the team is heading in the right direction. Alex Lomax feels better about his role. And that blowout felt good. But is it enough?

The Tigers exhibited improved passing, but 3-point shooting remains a weakness.

Related Story: Hardaway says Memphis gets a ‘B’ — but is that good enough?

It’s still a small sample size, but three players are commonalities in the lineups with a positive plus-minus.

Jeffries exploded for a 15-point outburst in Memphis’ win over Central Arkansas, a long-awaited breakout performance in which the sophomore forward appeared to exorcise the demons that have terrorized him this season. 

Landers Nolley II scored 23 points, his third game with 20-plus points. 

Related Story: D.J. Jeffries finds his way, and Memphis is better for it.

Until the NCAA issues a final ruling, Williams can practice with the Tigers but remains sidelined during games.

The game provided Penny Hardaway more insight as to who is best suited to what role, and when.

The Tigers made their return to FedExForum Wednesday night. They got the win they needed, but there’s no way of knowing if they found answers to their questions.

The Tigers rebound after two tough losses, and Ahmad Rand makes his debut. 

Related Story: Memphis basketball: Energy, as much as lineup changes, helped Tigers beat Arkansas State 

The Sun Belt team has a strong, solid backcourt, but rebounding is a weakness.

No courtside seats will be available for Tigers games this season. The Grizzlies are still determining seating configurations. 

The team has gone through intense practices, intent on shedding whatever it was that held it down at the Crossover Classic.

Coach Penny Hardaway used 55 lineups through the first three games. Which worked and which didn’t?

The Tigers looked out of sorts in their second straight loss, leaving the Crossover Classic 1-2.