The 10 Best Memphis Basketball Players

#10: D.J. Stephens (2010-2013)

• Position: Small Forward
• Height/Weight: 6’5″, 188 lbs

D.J. Stephens was known for his incredible athleticism and leaping ability during his time at the University of Memphis. As a small forward, Stephens made a significant impact on both ends of the court with his defensive prowess and highlight-reel dunks. 

He set the record for the highest vertical leap ever recorded at the NBA Draft Combine at 46 inches. During his senior year, Stephens averaged 7.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game, earning him the Conference USA Defensive Player of the Year award in 2013. His electrifying plays and defensive tenacity made him a fan favorite and a key player for the Tigers.

#9: Joey Dorsey (2004-2008)

• Position: Power Forward / Center
• Height/Weight: 6’9″, 275 lbs

Joey Dorsey was a dominant force in the paint for the University of Memphis Tigers. Known for his rebounding and shot-blocking abilities, Dorsey was a key player during Memphis’ deep NCAA tournament runs, including their appearance in the 2008 NCAA Championship game. 

Over his college career, Dorsey averaged 6.7 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game. His physical presence and defensive skills made him an anchor for the Tigers’ defense and a crucial contributor to their success.

#8: Rodney Carney (2002-2006)

• Position: Small Forward
• Height/Weight: 6’7″, 205 lbs

Rodney Carney was known for his athleticism and scoring ability during his time at the University of Memphis. As a small forward, Carney was a prolific scorer, finishing his college career with an average of 15.5 points per game. 

In his senior year, he averaged 17.2 points and 4.3 rebounds per game, earning First Team All-Conference USA honors. Carney’s ability to shoot from long range and finish at the rim made him a versatile offensive threat and a key player for the Tigers.

#7: Chris Douglas-Roberts (2005-2008)

• Position: Shooting Guard / Small Forward
• Height/Weight: 6’7″, 200 lbs

Chris Douglas-Roberts, also known as CDR, was a standout player for the University of Memphis, known for his scoring ability and clutch performances. Douglas-Roberts played a crucial role in leading the Tigers to the 2008 NCAA Championship game. 

During his junior year, he averaged 18.1 points and 4.1 rebounds per game, earning First Team All-American honors. His smooth offensive game and ability to score in crucial moments made him one of the most reliable players on the team.

#6: Elliot Perry (1987-1991)

• Position: Point Guard
• Height/Weight: 6’0″, 150 lbs

Elliot Perry, nicknamed “Socks” for his trademark high socks, was a dynamic point guard for the University of Memphis. Known for his quickness and scoring ability, Perry finished his college career as the school’s all-time leading scorer with 2,209 points. He averaged 19.7 points and 4.2 assists per game over his four-year career. 

Perry’s leadership and playmaking skills helped the Tigers achieve significant success during his tenure. He was named an All-American and was later inducted into the University of Memphis Hall of Fame.

#5: Keith Lee (1981-1985)

• Position: Power Forward / Center
• Height/Weight: 6’10”, 215 lbs

Keith Lee is considered one of the greatest players in University of Memphis history. As a power forward and center, Lee dominated the paint with his scoring and rebounding abilities. 

He finished his college career with averages of 18.8 points and 10.4 rebounds per game. Lee led the Tigers to the 1985 Final Four and was a four-time All-American. 

His impact on the court was matched by his leadership, making him a cornerstone of the Memphis basketball program during his time. Lee remains the school’s all-time leading scorer and rebounder.

#4: Lorenzen Wright (1994-1996)

• Position: Power Forward / Center
• Height/Weight: 6’11”, 255 lbs

Lorenzen Wright was a dominant force for the University of Memphis during his two seasons with the Tigers. Known for his rebounding and shot-blocking ability, Wright averaged 16.0 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game. 

He was named a First Team All-Conference USA selection and led the Tigers to the NCAA Tournament in both of his seasons. Wright’s physical presence and defensive skills made him a key player for Memphis and helped set the stage for his successful NBA career.

#3: Larry Finch (1969-1973)

• Position: Guard
• Height/Weight: 6’2″, 180 lbs

Larry Finch is a legendary figure in Memphis basketball history, both as a player and a coach. As a player, Finch led the Tigers to the 1973 NCAA Championship game, where he scored 29 points in the final. 

He finished his college career with averages of 22.3 points and 5.4 rebounds per game. Finch was known for his scoring ability, leadership, and clutch performances. After his playing career, he returned to Memphis as the head coach, leading the Tigers to several NCAA Tournament appearances. Finch’s impact on Memphis basketball is profound, and his legacy is celebrated by fans and players alike.

#2: Derrick Rose (2007-2008)

• Position: Point Guard
• Height/Weight: 6’3″, 200 lbs

Derrick Rose had a remarkable but brief college career at the University of Memphis. As a freshman, Rose led the Tigers to the 2008 NCAA Championship game, where they narrowly lost in overtime. 

Rose averaged 14.9 points, 4.7 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per game and was named to the All-Final Four Team. His exceptional speed, athleticism, and playmaking ability made him one of the most exciting players in college basketball. Rose’s performance at Memphis helped him become the first overall pick in the 2008 NBA Draft, and he went on to have a stellar NBA career, including winning the MVP award in 2011.

#1: Anfernee Penny Hardaway (1991-1993)

• Position: Point Guard / Shooting Guard
• Height/Weight: 6’7″, 200 lbs

Penny Hardaway is widely regarded as the greatest player in the history of Memphis basketball. During his two seasons with the Tigers, Hardaway showcased his incredible versatility, scoring, and playmaking abilities. 

He averaged 20.0 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 6.7 assists per game. Hardaway led Memphis to the Elite Eight in 1992 and was a consensus First Team All-American in 1993. 

His unique combination of size, skill, and athleticism made him one of the most dynamic players in college basketball. Hardaway’s success at Memphis paved the way for his illustrious NBA career. He returned to the University of Memphis as the head coach, continuing to influence the program.