Friends, family and loved ones came together Wednesday night to watch Binghampton’s Alex Lomax sign his letter of intent. Roughly 100 people packed the Lester Street Community Center to bask in the celebration.
Many in this neighborhood watched Lomax grow up before their eyes, and now they do not have to travel far to see him play, as he is staying to go to the University of Memphis.
“It takes a community to raise a strong black man these days,” Lomax said to the crowd. “I just want to thank everybody who helped raise me to get to this point.”
Lomax grew up in the Binghampton neighborhood of Memphis and has a successful basketball career. While he attended Memphis East High School he went to the state championship four times and won three consecutive years. Originally, Lomax committed to Wichita State University but requested a release when Penny Hardaway, who coached Lomax at East, became the new head coach of the Memphis Tigers.
Now Lomax had another signing day and said this one is special because he is doing it to play at home.
“It feels different,” Lomax said. “I’m home. My heart is staying here. I don’t have to worry about being far from my family. I just want to thank everybody and thank God for this situation being able to happen.”
Lomax’s decision to stay at home, along with all the excitement of having Hardaway as coach, comes with a lot of responsibilities and pressure, but Lomax said regardless of those things, he is not phased from what he plans to do at the U of M.
“I don’t feel any pressure at all,” Lomax said. “I’m just going to go out and work hard every day and listen and trust my coach. I really don’t feel any pressure.”
Many Memphians across the city are excited about for a rejuvenated college basketball program. Under former head coach Tubby Smith, the Tigers had winning records, but they did not make it to the NIT or the NCAA Tournament. Lomax said fans should support the Tigers because great things are in store for the team.
“I’m looking forward to a great season and a well-coached team,” Lomax said. “And a great coaching staff and some good players that are going to be ready to do whatever it takes to win.”
Lomax is a three-star guard recruit out of high school and says he is ready to produce at a high-level for the U of M.
Now, Tigers fans are waiting to see if Hardaway can work his magic on another local recruit. Tyler Harris, a point guard from Cordova High School, is expected to announce where he is committing Friday afternoon. He is also a three-star guard recruit and is well-respected among recruiters and sports media. Prior to the hiring of Hardaway, all reports indicated he was going to Baylor, but that decision has not been finalized.
Alex Lomax, middle, sits with his parents on each side of him for his signing event. Lomax played under new Memphis coach Penny Hardaway at Memphis East High School.
A table with memorabilia for Alex Lomax stands where Lomax had his signing celebration event. Lomax played under new Memphis coach Penny Hardaway at Memphis East High School.
