The NCAA has once again placed the University of Memphis under the microscope, citing new concerns that both its men’s basketball and women’s softball programs have reaffirmed their commitments to practices previously flagged as violations of NCAA rules.
In a statement released this week, the NCAA confirmed it is actively investigating what it describes as “recommitments to non-compliant behaviors” within Memphis athletics. According to the report, officials believe Memphis coaches and administrators continued activities that violate recruiting and benefits regulations—even after earlier warnings and investigations.
History of Violations
Memphis has faced NCAA scrutiny before. In 2019, the men’s basketball program was investigated for the recruitment of star prospect James Wiseman, who played briefly before being ruled ineligible over impermissible benefits connected to then-coach Penny Hardaway. That case resulted in penalties and probation.
Now, the NCAA says similar issues have surfaced again. Investigators allege that both the basketball and softball programs have maintained ties with boosters and third-party affiliates that continue to provide improper benefits to student-athletes and recruits. These benefits reportedly include cash, housing assistance, and access to exclusive training facilities—all of which are prohibited under current NCAA guidelines unless fully disclosed and approved.
Continued Commitments Raise Red Flags
What has drawn the NCAA’s attention this time isn’t just the alleged violations themselves, but that both programs have, according to documents, “reaffirmed and recommitted” to relationships and operations previously marked as rule-breaking.
“Memphis was placed under guidelines for reform and education following prior infractions. However, we now see a pattern of non-compliance that suggests systemic issues rather than isolated incidents,” the NCAA said in a statement.
The reaffirmation of these commitments—some of which reportedly appear in internal communications and booster club records—signals to investigators that Memphis leadership may not have taken corrective actions seriously.
University Response
The University of Memphis responded Thursday afternoon, issuing a brief statement acknowledging the NCAA’s inquiry.
“We are aware of the NCAA’s notice and are fully cooperating with their ongoing review,” the statement read. “The University of Memphis remains committed to compliance and integrity in all its athletic programs.”
No staff suspensions or penalties have yet been announced, though sources indicate that internal reviews are ongoing, and that multiple coaches and support staff have been interviewed.
What’s Next?
If the NCAA determines that Memphis knowingly ignored prior infractions and allowed continued violations, the programs could face serious consequences—including scholarship reductions, postseason bans, or recruiting limitations. Repeat offender status can also lead to harsher penalties under NCAA bylaws.
The university’s compliance office, already under pressure from previous sanctions, may now be tasked with implementing more aggressive oversight measures. Meanwhile, the basketball and softball programs face uncertain futures as the investigation unfolds.
For Memphis fans and athletes, the developments cast a shadow over upcoming seasons and raise serious questions about leadership accountability within Tiger athletics.