Hardaway Says He Gave Memphis $2.6M

Memphis men’s basketball coach Penny Hardaway says he is putting $2.6 million of his own money toward player revenue sharing for the 2026-27 season, bringing the team’s total allocation to $9 million. Hardaway said the school did not ask him to contribute, but he wanted to help the Tigers remain competitive after a disappointing season and missing the NCAA Tournament. He also said limited funds cost Memphis a chance to sign Oklahoma State center Andrija Vuković, who chose George Washington for a larger offer. Other college coaches have also redirected personal compensation or donated money to support their programs’ player-payment budgets.