Penny Hardaway, PJ Haggerty earn AAC season honors

Memphis Tigers head coach Penny Hardaway has been named the American Athletic Conference (AAC) Coach of the Year for the first time, leading the team to its first AAC regular season championship in over a decade with a record of 26-5. The Tigers secured the top seed in the upcoming AAC tournament, finishing the regular season with a strong 16-2 record in conference play. Sophomore guard PJ Haggerty was honored as the AAC Player of the Year, averaging an impressive 21.2 points per game, while Dain Dainja earned the Newcomer of the Year award. The AAC also recognized the late Amir Abdur-Rahim posthumously as an honorary Coach of the Year. Hardaway's achievement marks a significant milestone in his coaching career, as he has now reached 150 career wins and led the Tigers through a challenging nonconference schedule. This recognition comes as the team prepares for its postseason run, reflecting their strong performance throughout the season.