What will it take for Memphis basketball to get back on track against Wichita State on Thursday? Fewer turnovers, smarter shots and, maybe, the arrival of Jordan Nesbitt. 

After a tumultuous path of missteps and hurdles, the forward finally bursts forth and brings his joy to the Tigers.

Alex Lomax and Damion Baugh both took turns at point guard for most of the nonconference schedule. And, Lester Quinones assumed the starting role for two games in December.

Grizzlies have not announced if they will do the same.

Morris announced he was reopening his commitment just hours after Memphis’ loss to Tulsa. 

Says coach Penny Hardaway: “We’re just not ready to win those type of games yet because you’ve got to be tough.”

Jan. 17, 2021: Tulsa 58, Memphis 57. There were 100 people in attendance at Reynolds Center in Tulsa.

Season-high 21 turnovers and missed chances sink Tigers in 58-57 loss. Related articles:  New Year, same Tigers: Memphis’ struggles persist and Box score: Tulsa 58, Memphis 57

Memphis has been faced with three consecutive game postponements this month. 

Maya Stovall is not eligible to play for the Tigers this season.

The Tigers have had plenty of practice. They can only hope Sunday’s game against Tulsa actually happens.

The Tigers haven’t played since Dec. 29. 

Lots of questions today, including: “If you had a game today who would you have as your starting 5 and why?” One reader even is asking about next season.

The Tigers will be playing the Knights twice in three days at FedExForum.

The Tigers are hoping to get a game during that span, but in the meantime, it’s a chance to work on their new offense.

It’s the second game postponement in four days for the Tigers, who will wait until Jan. 14 for their next game against SMU. 

Tigers forward Lance Thomas and UCF guard Darius Perry have been opponents as well as roommates, but always friends.

Knox is the second to commit to Penny Hardaway’s 2022 class.

Here’s one thing to commit to: Working on those free throws.

A positive COVID-19 test and contact tracing in Temple’s program resulted in the postponement.

On Dec. 21, Rand played a season-high eight minutes in Memphis’ loss to Tulsa. But he didn’t play at all in Tuesday’s win over USF and then submitted his name to the NCAA transfer portal. 

There are signs the new scheme could breed confidence and consistency with time.