Calkins: It’s a moment of truth for Memphis, not just the Tigers or the Grizz.
OKC is spending $850 million to keep the Thunder. There’s a lesson there for us.
University of Memphis fans at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium during the Tigers game against Bethune-Cookman on Sept. 2, 2023 (Wes Hale/Special to The Daily Memphian file)
Geoff Calkins
Geoff Calkins has been chronicling Memphis and Memphis sports for more than two decades. He is host of "The Geoff Calkins Show" from 9-11 a.m. M-F on 92.9 FM. Calkins has been named the best sports columnist in the country five times by the Associated Press sports editors, but still figures his best columns are about the people who make Memphis what it is.
University of Memphis athletic director Laird Vearch said this a “moment of truth” for the Tigers. But it’s more than that. It’s a moment of truth for a city that wants to keep its major-league status.
Topics
Memphis Grizzlies Memphis Tigers FedExForum Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium Subscriber OnlyWe’re in the final countdown of 2025. ⌛🪩🎉
Will you make a donation before the ball drops on New Year’s Eve to fuel trustworthy reporting in the new year?
➡️ Make a fully tax-deductible donation or other contribution to The Daily Memphian, a 501(c)3 nonprofit news organization.
We believe an informed Memphis is a better Memphis. If you agree, join our growing list of donors now!
Geoff Calkins on demand
Never miss an article. Sign up to receive Geoff Calkins' stories as they’re published.
Enter your e-mail address
Related stories
If Pearson is reappointed, is stadium funding in jeopardy? Probably not
The dispute over reappointing an ousted state legislator doesn’t appear to put Memphis stadium funding in jeopardy. Expelled Tennessee House reps retain counsel, including former US Attorney General Nashville Metro Council returns Justin Jones to the Tennessee HouseRelated stories:
Tennessee General Assembly approves $350M in Memphis stadium funding
The funding, which is part of Gov. Bill Lee’s budget for the coming year, was approved with an amendment to allow the cash to be used for all city-owned stadiums.
Tigers athletic director says stadium funding might get Power 5 attention
Memphis athletic director Laird Veatch believes renovated venue could be ‘last piece' before a new conference comes calling.
Comments
Want to comment on our stories or respond to others? Join the conversation by subscribing now. Only paid subscribers can add their thoughts or upvote/downvote comments. Our commenting policy can be viewed here.