The Memphis Tigers basketball team continues to face challenges with injuries as they prepare for their matchup against No. 11 Louisville on December 13. As the team struggles with roster availability, Coach Penny Hardaway announced that sophomore guards Julius Thedford and Curtis Givens III are unlikely to participate in the game.
Despite signs of improvement in their recovery, Hardaway expressed skepticism about their readiness. “I don’t think we’ll have Julius. I don’t think we’ll have Curtis, either,” he stated during a press conference on December 11.
Givens has been sidelined since sustaining a deep thigh bruise in a loss against Wake Forest on November 21. Thedford, on the other hand, has been recovering from a hyperextended right knee, which he injured during a win over New Orleans on December 3. As both players focus on rehabilitation, Hardaway noted that Givens appears to be progressing more quickly than Thedford, although Thedford’s recovery is still ongoing, with Hardaway estimating him at about 50% of his normal capacity.
Thedford has participated in seven games this season, averaging 9.0 points and 5.1 rebounds, while Givens has seen action in five games, scoring an average of 7.4 points. Additionally, the Tigers recently welcomed back forward Hasan Abdul Hakim, who missed the previous game against Baylor due to personal reasons.
As Memphis prepares for the upcoming game against Louisville, the focus remains on overcoming the obstacles posed by injuries. The team, currently sitting at a 4-4 record, will be looking to improve its standings while aiming for a strong performance against a ranked opponent.
The situation highlights the resilience and determination of the players as they continue to work hard in rehabilitation. With each player’s contribution crucial to the team’s success, Memphis fans hope for a swift recovery for Thedford and Givens, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.