Memphis, Tenn. – In a dramatic home debut for the Tigers, junior guard Jayden Reid expressed heartfelt gratitude after delivering a 32‑point performance that secured an 89‑88 victory over Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) on Saturday. The win marked the Tigers’ second straight triumph to start the 2026‑27 college basketball season.
Reid’s emotional post‑game interview
Following the game‑winning free throws with five seconds left, Reid joined the Tigers’ radio broadcast on the floor. As the microphone rolled, the young guard’s voice trembled with emotion. “I’m just so thankful, I’m just thankful, man,” he said through tears. “God blessed me so much to be in this position. I always prayed for this. I’m grateful for God putting me in a great position coming to Memphis out of the transfer portal. I’m thankful for my coaches and my teammates; it’s a big‑time win at home.”
From New York to Memphis
Reid, a native of Westbury, New York, began his collegiate career at the University of South Florida before transferring to Northwestern, where he averaged 10 points and five rebounds per game in the Big Ten. After two seasons with the Wildcats, he entered the transfer portal again and chose to join Penny Hardaway’s Memphis program.
His impact was immediate. After a 26‑point effort in the Tigers’ upset of Iowa State to open the season, Reid followed with the 32‑point outing against VCU, becoming the second‑leading scorer in the nation after just two games. The performance also highlighted his efficiency: he turned the ball over only three times in those two contests, a statistic his head coach, Penny Hardaway, praised as a sign of disciplined play.
Coach Hardaway’s perspective
Hardaway, a former NBA star and Memphis legend, lauded Reid’s composure and leadership. “Jayden brings a veteran’s poise to our young team,” Hardaway said. “His ability to stay calm in the clutch and give credit where it’s due reflects the character we want to see on and off the court.” The coach added that Reid’s gratitude and faith align with the program’s emphasis on personal responsibility and community values.
What the win means for Memphis
The narrow victory over VCU keeps Memphis unbeaten at 2‑0 and positions the Tigers as early contenders in the competitive American Athletic Conference. Reid’s scoring average of 29 points per game ranks second nationally, underscoring the Tigers’ offensive firepower.
Fans in the FedExForum praised the emotional moment, noting that Reid’s display of humility and thankfulness resonated with a community that values faith and family. Local church groups posted supportive messages on social media, highlighting the player’s public acknowledgment of God’s role in his success.
Looking ahead
With the season just a week old, the Tigers will travel to face conference rivals in the coming weeks. Reid’s leadership and his willingness to give credit to his coaches, teammates and faith will likely continue to shape the team’s culture as they pursue a championship run.
As the Tigers prepare for their next challenge, Reid’s emotional interview serves as a reminder that gratitude and perseverance remain central to Memphis basketball’s identity.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
