Though the college basketball season is still months away, the University of Memphis is steadily adding to its basketball roster. Just recently, the Tigers landed former Louisville Cardinals’ forward Lance Thomas.
Thomas visited Memphis on May 31 and committed to the program the next day, saying he felt like he belonged with the team.
“I met with the whole staff,” Thomas said. “I got a good vibe from all of them, and they seem pretty invested in getting players better. That’s why I feel like Memphis is going to be the perfect spot for me.”
Thomas played one year at Louisville before deciding to transfer. During his freshman year, he played 12 games and scored double-digit points in two of those games. Additionally, he averaged 2.2 points per game and shot roughly 64.3 percent from the field on the season.
It is unclear how soon Thomas will be able to contribute to the team. According to a press release sent out by the Memphis Athletic Department, Thomas will have to sit out this season and have three years of eligibility remaining beginning in the 2019-20 season, per NCAA rules. But it has been reported Thomas plans to appeal with the NCAA in order to play this upcoming season for the Tigers.
Regardless, Thomas said he will be able to adjust to Memphis and add to the team without any issues, and he likes what the coaching staff is putting together at Memphis.
“I feel like I can fit on any team because I can do so much,” Thomas said. “Whether it’s offense or defense, Coach Penny is trying to bring dogs in who are going to make each other better every day.”
Thomas is expected to impact both ends of the floor. His 6-foot-9, 210-pound frame poses a threat to opponents in the American Athletic Conference.
“Offensively I’m really versatile and can shoot it and handle it,” Thomas said. “Being that I’m 6-foot-9, I like to post-up as well, and my length on both sides of the ball. On defense, I can guard multiple positions. So, it’s really just whatever I’m asked to do, I’ll do and more.”
Penny had notes prepared for his speech. Afterwards, he said he wanted to give his remarks from the heart.
