As University of Memphis Tigers basketball player Markel Crawford became the sixth Tiger to announce his transfer from the U of M, fans expressed mixed feelings about the shake up.
Crawford’s announcement comes after KJ Lawson, Dedric Lawson, Keon Clergeot, Craig Randall and Chad Rykhoek said they would not be returning for another season with the Tigers.
Some said the mass exodus could mean trouble for the upcoming season. Others said as disappointing as it is, the changes could be for the better.
“I don’t know we’re in trouble next year,” said U of M junior Charlie Hilgeman, “I think we got a lot of work to do. We definitely need to recruit.”
“I’m always in support of Memphis players staying in Memphis, but when you’re clearing House sometimes it could be a good thing,” said senior Eric Pugh.
“Each individual players makes a decision on what’s best for them,” said University of Memphis booster Harold Byrd.
Byrd said the shake-up is a bump in the road, but he is optimistic about the future, adding the program’s history points to continued success.
“I wish these young kids well who are leaving. I got to know them, they’re fine young man, but we have other fine young man on the team. We’ll recruit others. Memphis basketball program will remain strong and vibrant,” said Byrd.
As for head coach Tubby Smith, fans said they still believe he is the right person to lead the men’s basketball team.
“Coach Smith every place he has been during his career he has been a winner. The players they respond to him. They like him,” said Byrd.
“Definitely I think he’s a great coach and he can turn things around,” said Hilgeman.
“I feel like you can’t be mad at a man with the resume that he has. You just have to trust and believe that we hired the right person. Give him a chance,” said Pugh.
When it comes to how these transfers may affect ticket sales, Byrd said that impact remains to be seen.
