Tigers’ freshman Johnson to transfer
Memphis freshman Jamal Johnson on Tuesday became the second Tigers player to seek a transfer under new coach Penny Hardaway.
Johnson announced on social media that he decided to request a release from his scholarship at Memphis and continue his career at another school.
Johnson, who is the son of former NBA player Buck Johnson, was former coach Tubby Smith’s highest rated recruit at Memphis. He started the final 27 games this past season as the Tigers’ shooting guard.
The Birmingham, Ala., native averaged 6.9 points, 3.3 rebounds and 1.0 assists per game, and he hit the second-most 3-pointers on the team (47).
“I want to especially thank Coach Tubby Smith, and his staff for giving me the opportunity to play, the guidance and embracing me in their basketball family,” Johnson wrote. “I have decided to request my release from the University of Memphis. With this decision, I have decided to open up the recruitment process, and continue my athletic and academic career elsewhere.”
Johnson joins classmate David Nickelberry as players who have chosen to transfer from Memphis since Hardaway’s hiring became official March 20. The only scholarship player remaining from last year’s three-member freshmen class is forward Victor Enoh.
Hardaway previously said he would
grant a release to any player who decided to leave Memphis in the wake of Smith’s firing. Memphis assistant coach Tony Madlock said on ESPN 92.9 FM that Johnson had not yet spoken to Hardaway about his decision to transfer as of Tuesday afternoon.
The Tigers now have at least five available scholarships to use heading into next season, although one is expected to be filled by East point guard Alex Lomax. He was granted a release from his national letter of intent at Wichita State last month in order to play for Hardaway at Memphis.