Nemanja Popović touched down in Memphis on July 3, becoming the latest addition to the University of Memphis basketball program. The Serbian center has been cleared by the coaching staff to join on‑court workouts, and he has already enrolled as a graduate student, appearing in the university’s online student directory.
Popović arrives after a standout season in Poland’s top league, where he averaged 14.3 points and 6.4 rebounds for King Wilki Morskie Szczecin and earned All‑PLK honors. The 24‑year‑old previously captured the MVP award in Serbia’s Basketball League with KK Vršac, posting 18.2 points and 7.4 rebounds per game.
King Wilki Morskie Szczecin head coach Maciej Majcherek praised the newcomer, describing him as “very talented” and “very mobile,” qualities that the Memphis staff hope will translate into immediate impact.
A Strategic Boost for Penny Hardaway’s Vision
Coach Penny Hardaway, who has been orchestrating an aggressive roster overhaul, sees Popović as a key piece in his plan to restore the program’s national relevance. The Serbian big man’s ability to stretch the floor and protect the rim aligns with Hardaway’s up‑tempo, perimeter‑driven philosophy.
The Tigers’ frontcourt will be bolstered by transfers Corneilous Williams and Maxim Logue, returning forward William Whorton, and freshman phenom Fred Smith Jr. Together, the group offers a blend of size, versatility, and depth as the program looks to rebound from a challenging previous campaign.
Beyond the statistics, Popović’s integration into the campus community signals a broader ambition: to blend international talent with home‑grown prospects, fostering a culture of competition and academic excellence that could redefine the Tigers’ trajectory.