Memphis women’s basketball hosting South Carolina and Tennessee next year? It’s happening

When the Memphis women’s basketball program announced its non-conference schedule last month, there was a notable name missing.

The Tigers were originally scheduled to host South Carolina − a marquee opponent that has won two national titles since 2017, reached three straight Final Fours and nine straight Sweet 16s − to complete a home-and-home series agreement that was made in July 2022. The series began on Dec. 3, 2022 in Columbia. The Gamecocks won 79-54.

The return game is now set for the 2024-25 season, according to the amended game contract, which was obtained by The Commercial Appeal via open records request. The amendment was signed on Aug. 22, more than a month after the Tigers agreed to begin a home-and-home series with Tennessee (on Nov. 13) in Knoxville.

Although a firm date has not been set, the amendment indicates the South Carolina game will be played at FedExForum.

“Date will be selected based on mutual agreement by both teams and upon FedExForum schedule including NBA contests/holds, other venue events and commitments and Memphis Men’s Basketball dates,” the contract reads.

The Tigers have also agreed to host Tennessee at FedExForum during the 2024-25 season. The original contract with South Carolina did not specify whether the game in Memphis would be played at Elma Roane Field House − the program’s primary site for home games − or elsewhere.

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It is unclear why the return game was bumped to next season. But the original deal was made when Katrina Merriweather was the Tigers’ coach. Memphis hired Alex Simmons in April after Merriweather was named coach at Cincinnati, her alma mater. Memphis was 22-11 last season and reached the third round of the Women’s National Invitation Tournament, bowing out with a loss at Bowling Green.

The Tigers return six players from last season’s roster, led by second-leading scorer Madison Griggs.

Reach sports writer Jason Munz at jason.munz@commercialappeal.com or on Twitter @munzly.