Memphis Lands Rider Transfer Tariq Ingraham to Bolster Frontcourt
Memphis Tigers men’s basketball coach Penny hardaway has added Rider University transfer Tariq Ingraham to teh roster, the program announced Wednesday. the 7-foot center is expected to provide a physical interior presence for the Tigers.
Ingraham, who started 33 games for Rider in the 2024-25 season, averaged 10.9 points and seven rebounds per game, also contributing 1.5 assists and achieving seven double-doubles. He shot 54.2% from the field, ranking fifth in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC).
“They told me they want me to be Tariq Ingraham,” Ingraham told The Commercial Appeal. “‘You create your own path. You’re not going to be anyone’s replacement.’ They knew people would say that, but they’re like, ‘Nah, we’re not doing that here. We want you to be the best you possible.'”
Prior to Ingraham’s arrival, Memphis already possessed notable size with 7-footers Aaron Bradshaw and Simon Majok, along with forwards Thierno Sylla and Arop Arop. however, the team sought to add a more imposing physical presence inside.
“I can play the 4 or the 5, if I need to,” Ingraham said. “It doesn’t really matter to me, as long as I’m on the court.”
Ingraham also started 32 games for Rider in 2023-24, averaging 9.3 points and 6.5 rebounds. He appeared in all 30 games (16 starts) during his first season with the Broncos, posting 6.4 points and 3.5 rebounds per game.
Ingraham began his collegiate career at wake Forest, where his time was hampered by injuries. He missed the entire 2019-20 season after tearing his left Achilles tendon in the preseason and played in onyl two games in 2020-21 due to a separate medical issue. He transferred after appearing in one game for the Demon Deacons in 2021-22.
The Tigers were already at their 15-player roster limit before Ingraham’s addition, raising the possibility of a subsequent roster move.
Memphis will hold preseason exhibitions against Arkansas (Oct. 27, 8 p.m. CT, ESPNU) at FedExForum and auburn (Oct. 30, 7:30 p.m. CT) at State Farm Arena in Atlanta. The regular season begins Nov. 8 at home against San Francisco.