Memphis Tigers Tailed By NCAA

Big time props to Dan Wolken of the Memphis Commercial Appeal for breaking the story of major allegations against the University of Memphis men's basketball program.

Back on January 16, 2009 the NCAA sent Memphis a notice of allegations charging the men's basketball program with major violations during the 2007-08 season. That team was coached by John Calipari and went to the NCAA title game losing to Kansas.

The NCAA is alleging that a prospective player became eligible after an "unknown individual" completed his SAT. That player played during the 1007-08 season and participated in the 2008 NCAA men's basketball tournament.

That players name was redacted in the NCAA report, You can read the NCAA notice of allegations here. According to the university spokesman that player has denied the charge.

The only Memphis player that fits that profile from the NCAA notice was Derrick Rose of the Chicago Bulls.

By the way, you won't see John Calipari's name on this report, he appears to be in the clear.

You can read Wolken's story in the Memphis Commercial Appeal right here.

Here's more from WHBQ-TV in Memphis.

And here are comments from Memphis Athletic Director R.C. Johnson. (Thanks WHBQ-TV)

Drew Withdraws From Memphis Consideration

((HT: Memphis CommercialAppeal/Dan Wolken))

Baylor's Scott Drew removed himself from consideration Saturday night to become the University of Memphis basketball coach.

A source close to the situation had said Drew only wanted to be considered if he was the No. 1 candidate. But when Memphis waffled on whether Drew was the top choice, he pulled out.

The Tigers' search became increasingly shrouded in secrecy as officials were hoping to avoid another embarrassing public rejection from one of its targets.

Scott Drew released this statement:

“Whenever your name is rumored for another job, it’s a positive reflection of your hard work and respect for the job you are doing. At the same time, our staff wanted to rebuild Baylor into an elite basketball program. We are on the right track, but there is still work left to be done. Our staff and players are excited about the future and look forward to more successful seasons to come. We have the academics, facilities and resources to make a Baylor a national power. I would like to thank the administration and the Board of Regents for their support. We look forward to seeing everyone in the Ferrell Center next season.”

At Memphis, A Pitch For Pearl

Let the speculating begin as to who will be the new head coach at the University of Memphis. Only those Tiger power brokers and the University administration known who's on the radar screen. Could they be looking east down I-40 toward Knoxville?

A pitch for Pearl has begun. Memphis Commercial-Appeal columnist Geoff Calkins (who has been very popular at the OSG HQ lately) believes Bruce Pearl would be a great fit for the Memphis Tigers. That Pearl would have the charisma and coaching skills to match the departed John Calipari.

Calkins writes: Pearl could drop by Gibson's Donuts in the mornings, just like John Calipari did.

The regulars would love the guy.

He could take over Cal's Championship Steaks. Call it the Pearl Oyster House.

What a way to make this community gloom disappear.

It would take a $2.5 million to buyout Pearl at Tennessee but the powers that be at Memphis have let it be known money is no object.

Calkins adds: He knows the area (Memphis). He recruits here all the time. He likes big piles of cash as much as the next guy.

And he would like much better in a royal blue blazer than that electric orange one.

UPDATE:

Foxsports.com is citing sources that the Memphis is making a move at Bruce Pearl. Memphis athletic director R.C. Johnson is expected to ask the University of Tennessee for permission to talk to Pearl and is expected to offer in the neighborhood of $3 million per season.

Their sources also indicate that Pearl would listen.

The Knoxville (TN) News says Pearl and Tennessee athletic director Mike Hamilton were to meet Thursday afternoon to discuss his contract.

Stay tuned.