Breaking : Penny Hardaway’s Jersey Retired as Fans Pack FedExForum to Celebrate Legend’s #25

MEMPHIS — A sea of blue and white filled FedExForum as the city of Memphis came together for a historic night, honoring one of its greatest basketball icons. Penny Hardaway’s iconic No. 25 jersey was officially retired, cementing his legacy forever among the legends of Memphis basketball.

The ceremony drew a packed house, with fans, former teammates, players, coaches, and community leaders all in attendance to celebrate the man who helped define an era of Tigers basketball. As Hardaway’s jersey was slowly raised to the rafters, the crowd erupted into a prolonged standing ovation—an emotional tribute to a player whose impact reached far beyond the court.

Hardaway starred for Memphis State (now the University of Memphis) in the early 1990s, electrifying fans with his rare combination of size, skill, and court vision. During his collegiate career, he led the Tigers to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and a run to the Elite Eight, putting Memphis basketball on the national map. His brilliance earned him All-America honors and paved the way for a stellar NBA career.

“This city believed in me from day one,” Hardaway said during his remarks, visibly moved. “Memphis isn’t just where I played basketball—it’s home. To see my jersey hanging here, in front of these fans, means everything to me.”

The night also highlighted Hardaway’s continued influence on the program. Now serving as head coach of the Memphis Tigers, he has dedicated himself to giving back to the same city that helped launch his career, mentoring young players and rebuilding the program with pride and purpose.

Former teammates and NBA contemporaries praised Hardaway not only for his on-court brilliance, but for his loyalty to Memphis and his commitment to uplifting the community. Video tributes played on the jumbotron chronicled his journey from local standout to national star, and finally, to hometown leader.

As No. 25 took its permanent place in the rafters, the message was clear: Penny Hardaway’s legacy is timeless. For Memphis fans, this was more than a jersey retirement—it was a celebration of identity, pride, and a bond between a city and one of its greatest sons that will never fade.