Memphis hosted a pro day on Thursday, which gave the media its first chance to see a live scrimmage from this Tiger team that returns only one contributor.
Scouts from the Grizzlies, Suns, Nets, and Trailblazers were in attendance.
Here are my takeaways from Memphis' inter-squad scrimmage:
Jared Harris Impresses: The freshman guard out of Texas ran the point in the second group today and looked more than ready. George Mason transfer Baraka Okojie was non-contact due to a shoulder injury, leading to Harris’ opportunity. He looked good under pressure, hit some tough contested shots, and had a couple of nice hustle plays. Harris may play a more significant role than expected.
Tyreek Smith’s motor is elite: Smith didn’t have an unbelievable day, but what did show was his heart. Smith was everywhere. He tipped every rebound, dove for loose balls, and hustled back in transition. If I had a vote, I would give him the scrimmage MVP after helping lead the reserve squad to the win.
Moussa Cisse’s mid-range shines: Cisse, known as an elite rim-protector and pure post player, relied heavily on his mid-range shot today. Some of them contested or even while falling away. I don’t have an exact number, but he made more than he missed. More importantly, it looked smooth and natural.
This squad won’t overwhelm you with size: The (projected) starting five (in positional order) are Tyrese Hunter (6’), PJ Haggerty (6’2.5), Colby Rogers (6’3), Nicholas Jourdain (6’7), and Dain Dainja (6’9). With the smaller stature of the squad, they could need to return to Hardaway’s defense-leads-to-offense philosophy. This team is fast - expect them to play as such. This team will go as far as their transition can take them on both ends of the floor.
Ragi Phillips’ game-winner: Due to a Baraka Okojie shoulder injury, walk-on guard Ragi Phillips split time in the reserve backcourt in today’s scrimmage. And he came through when it mattered most. Phillips received a screen, creating a switch and causing big-man Dain Dainja to guard the perimeter. Phillips forced the issue, made his way into the lane, and hit the go-ahead bucket while falling away with 20 seconds left.
Injury update: Coach Hardaway mentioned Tyrese Hunter tweaked his hamstring during today’s scrimmage. He also stated that Moussa is recovering from a groin injury, and Tyreek Smith has a hand injury.
Memphis will take on the North Carolina Tarheels in the Hoops for St. Jude Classic exhibition at the FedEx Forum on October 15th
Reach Rivals contributor Sam Shoemaker on X @s_shoemaker52
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