Who Plays Who? AAC Drops Explosive 2026-27 Matrix
Memphis Tigers Women’s Basketball: New Coach, New Schedule, Big Plans for 2026-27
The Big News: A Fresh Start for the Tigers
The American Athletic Conference (that’s the league the Tigers play in) just released the official conference schedule for the 2026-27 season. This is extra exciting because it will be Coach Hana Haden’s very first season leading the Memphis women’s basketball team!
Important Point: This schedule marks the beginning of a brand-new era for Memphis basketball under a new head coach.
What the Schedule Looks Like: Breaking It Down Simply
Think of the conference schedule like a balanced menu—some teams you play twice (home and away), some just once. Here’s the simple breakdown:
Home-and-Home Series (Play Twice Each)
The Tigers will face these six teams both at home in Memphis and on the road:
- UAB
- Charlotte
- Florida Atlantic
- Tulane
- Tulsa
- Wichita State
Single Home Games (Play Once at Elma Roane Fieldhouse)
Memphis hosts these three teams for one game each:
- North Texas
- Temple
- UTSA
Single Road Games (Play Once Away)
The Tigers travel to face these three teams one time each:
- East Carolina
- Rice
- South Florida
Key Dates to Remember
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Conference Play Starts | Wednesday, December 30, 2026 |
| Conference Play Ends | Saturday, March 6, 2027 |
Note: Exact game times and TV/streaming info will be announced later. Keep an eye on the official website!
Meet the Team: Returning Stars & Exciting Newcomers
Coach Haden has a nice mix of experienced players and fresh talent. Let’s meet them!
Returning Players (Back for More)
Daejah Richmond
- Honors: 2025-26 American Conference All-Newcomer Team AND All-Defensive Team
- What this means: She made a huge splash in her first year and is one of the best defenders in the league.
Tamya Smith
- Honors: 2024-25 American Conference All-Freshman Team
- What this means: She was one of the top first-year players in the conference last season.
New Additions (Fresh Faces, Big Skills)
Tierney Kelsey — The Local Star Returns Home
- From: Memphis native (played at Indiana State last year)
- Stats: Averaged 15.6 points per game in 2025-26
- Why it matters: She’s coming home for her final college season—expect big things!
Destiny Thomas — The Tiger Coming Back
- Story: A former Tiger returning to Memphis for her final season
- Vibe: Experience + homecoming = leadership on and off the court.
Anjanae Richardson — The Award Magnet
- Honors: Back-to-back All-MEAC honors
- 2025-26 Season: MEAC All-Defensive, All-Tournament, AND First Team selection
- Translation: She wins awards everywhere she goes—defense, tournaments, all-around play.
How to Follow the Tigers All Season Long
Don’t miss a single game or update! Here’s where to find everything:
| Platform | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Website | www.GoTigersGo.com |
| Twitter (X) | @MemphisWBB |
| @MemphisWBB | |
| Memphis Women’s Basketball |
Pro Tip: Turn on notifications for their social media so you never miss game day reminders, highlights, or behind-the-scenes content!
Quick Summary: Everything You Need to Know
- New Coach: Hana Haden takes over for 2026-27.
- 18 Conference Games: Balanced mix of home-and-home, single home, single away.
- Season Runs: Dec 30, 2026 – March 6, 2027.
- Core Returners: Daejah Richmond (elite defender), Tamya Smith (rising star).
- Key Additions: Tierney Kelsey (Memphis native, 15.6 PPG), Destiny Thomas (returning senior), Anjanae Richardson (decorated transfer).
- Follow Along: Website + all major social platforms.
FAQ: Your Questions, Answered Simply
What does "home-and-home" mean?
It means Memphis plays that team twice—once at home in Memphis, and once at the other team’s arena. Fair for everyone!
Who is Coach Hana Haden?
She’s the new head coach for Memphis women’s basketball. This 2026-27 season will be her first year leading the program.
Where do the Tigers play home games?
At Elma Roane Fieldhouse on the University of Memphis campus.
When will we know exact game times?
The conference said official dates and tipoff times will be announced later. Check GoTigersGo.com for updates.
How good is this incoming class?
Very promising! You’ve got a local star (Kelsey), a proven winner (Richardson), a returning leader (Thomas), plus two award-winning returners. Coach Haden has serious talent to work with.
Final Thought: With a new coach, a balanced schedule, and a roster full of proven winners and hungry newcomers, the 2026-27 season is shaping up to be must-watch basketball in Memphis. Go Tigers!
