It wasn’t Penny Hardaway’s new “lion set” offense that carried Memphis to a win over South Florida. It was Alex Lomax’s Tiger pride. 

The Tigers finally wore down USF with athleticism and quickness.

Related Story: Calkins: With disaster looming, Alex Lomax saved the day

Related Story: Memphis’ ‘lion’ offense off to a modest, not roaring, start

An extended break gave the Tigers a chance to install the scheme and reinforce a positive mental approach. 

Coach Penny Hardaway said, “I’m going to make the adjustments on the rotations, man, and just keep a big on the floor at all times, keep a true big on the floor at all times.” The problem is: Who?

With the Tigers struggling right now and no more games until Dec. 29, Memphis fans can at least look forward to watching former Tigers James Wiseman and Precious Achiuwa make their NBA debuts this week. 

The numbers do not lie. But there are eight days until the next game to get back on track.

On the day Memphis announced a five-year contract extension for Penny Hardaway, the Tigers looked utterly inept in losing to Tulsa.

Memphis loses to Tulsa in clunker 

Neither team played well, but the Tigers were plagued by unforced errors and poor shooting again.

Related story: Box score

Memphis Tigers men’s basketball coach Penny Hardaway has inked a five-year extension worth $12.25 million, the school announced Monday. 

DeAndre Williams will be in the starting lineup for the Tigers, who want to deliver Tulsa some payback.

The Grizzlies and Tigers will play home basketball games without fans until further notice. This decision comes under the direction of public health officials. 

Memphis still has issues in its game, but Williams’ appearance on the court is a welcome development.

The Evansville transfer became eligible to play just hours before Memphis and Tulane tipped off Wednesday. For a beleaguered Tigers team, it may have been just in time.

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.