Oh, Memphis Tigers fans, gather ’round because we’ve got some juicy college hoops drama unfolding with your main man, Dain Dainja. Penny Hardaway and crew are filing a waiver with the NCAA to get Dainja back on the court next season. It’s like waiting for the ref to make the call on a buzzer-beater—it could go either way.
So, here’s the scoop: Dainja has been ballin’ for the Tigers—averaging an impressive 15 points and 7.7 rebounds per game last season, snagging first-team All-AAC honors, and giving Memphis a solid run in both the regular and conference tourneys. But here’s the twist—he’s technically out of eligibility after four seasons. That’s where Coach Hardaway steps in, hoping the NCAA will give a nod to extend Dainja’s playing days by at least one more season.
And ain’t it typical NCAA style? Some players are seemingly spending half their lives in college ball with six, even seven-year stints. Penny knows the game and is just hoping Dainja gets the green light.
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Here’s the backstory puzzle: Dainja’s college journey started at Baylor, where a redshirt year and a broken foot set him back. He managed only three games there before hopping to Illinois. NCAA’s transfer rules kept him benched until 2022-23. He’s been rolling with Memphis since 2024 and seemed cleared for another year until games of eligibility roulette threw him off.
Dainja and his family genuinely thought his eligibility was all good. They were probably planning and maybe even shopping for new gear, before realizing—surprise!—there’s more red tape to cut through.
Meanwhile, Coach Hardaway isn’t exactly twiddling his thumbs waiting for the NCAA to make its move. He’s been busy loading up the roster for 2025-26 like someone stocking up on snacks before a road trip. He’s snagged Dug McDaniel, Aaron Bradshaw, Julius Thedford—you get the idea. Ashton Hardaway is on board too, keeping that family business vibe alive.
Let’s hope the NCAA folks are feeling generous. But either way, look out, AAC—the Tigers are building something big, with or without Dainja’s post presence for next season. And if you’re a Memphis fan, you know Penny’s got a few tricks up his sleeve to keep things exciting. Let the games—and the waiting game—begin.
