Memphis to sit F Malcolm Dandrige over eligibility concerns

Field Level Media|published: Sat 24th February, 13:21 2024

Jan 31, 2024; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Tigers forward Malcolm Dandridge (23) drives to the basket as Rice Owls forward Max Fiedler (15) defends during the first half at FedExForum. credits: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports

Memphis forward Malcolm Dandridge won't play amid a university investigation into his eligibility, the school said Saturday.

"The University of Memphis is currently gathering and reviewing information regarding a potential issue impacting Malcolm Dandridge's eligibility and is withholding him from competition until further notice," the school said in a statement. "To protect the integrity of that process, we are unable to comment further at this time."

The Commercial Appeal in Memphis reported the investigation will look into "potential academic misconduct" allegations against Dandridge, who played at East High School in the city.

Dandridge is a fifth-year senior and played from Memphis coach Penny Hardaway at East High. He was the first commitment for Hardaway when the coach moved to the Tigers in 2018.

On the season, the 6-foot-9 Dandridge is averaging 8.0 points and 5.0 rebounds, both career highs, in 27 games (19 starts).

The Tigers (19-8, 8-6 AAC) currently are serving three years' probation after an NCAA investigation found violations pertaining to the eligibility of James Wiseman in the early weeks of the 2019 season. The probation did not include an NCAA Tournament ban and will expire in September 2025.

Memphis will host FAU (21-6, 11-3) on Sunday.

—Field Level Media

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