In the electrifying atmosphere of the MTM Fieldhouse at Collierville High, basketball enthusiasts witnessed an impressive performance by Ashton Hardaway, son of the renowned Penny Hardaway
The game, where California Basketball Club dominated Platform Basketball Club Elite, became a spectacle not just for the on-court action but for the moments that followed.
A Family Affair
- Penny Hardaway, the legendary figure in Memphis basketball, graced the event with his family.
- Front-row seats were occupied by the Hardaways, relishing every moment of the Mid-South Basketball Classic.
- While the game featured notable names like Bronny James, it was Ashton Hardaway who stole the spotlight.
- As a starting wing for California Basketball Club and a senior at Sierra Canyon (California), Ashton stands tall at 6-foot-7, weighing 195 pounds.
- A three-star recruit, he showcased his prowess by contributing 20 points to his team’s triumph. His strategic plays and precise ball distribution were instrumental in the victory.
Post-Game Moments
What truly resonated with the Hardaway family were the post-game moments.
Amid the jubilant crowd, Ashton engaged in photo sessions with his brother Jayden Hardaway, a senior guard at Memphis, and later shared a heartfelt moment with Penny.
These instances captured the essence of family pride and basketball legacy.
Ashton Hardaway, The Basketball Player
Ashton Hardaway, standing tall at 6-foot-8, has secured his place as the 94th overall recruit in the country, according to On3.
ASHTON HARDAWAY
ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!
17 PTS
5-7 3PTThe freshman balled out for the Tigers and played his biggest game yet. Bright future for Ash.@BluffCity_Media | #GTG pic.twitter.com/LCSdhig1U7
— Hitmen Hoops Media (@HitmenHoops) November 23, 2023
Notably, he had a myriad of scholarship offers, including ones from prestigious institutions like Kansas, USC, San Diego, Oklahoma State, and Texas Tech.
This speaks volumes about his talent and the high regard in which he’s held within the basketball community
The Tigers’ Impressive 2023 Class
Ashton joins an already formidable 2023 class for the Memphis Tigers, becoming the seventh player to commit.
The roster includes other standout names like four-star guard Mikey Williams, four-star guard Ty-Laur Johnson, four-star forward JJ Taylor, three-star guard Carl Cherenfant, three-star guard Ryan Forrest, and three-star big man David Tubek.
The Tigers are shaping up to be a force to be reckoned with in the upcoming seasons
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Ashton Hardaway, His Professional Life
In the heart of Memphis, a basketball star is emerging—Ashton Hardaway.
This young talent, adorned with distinctive shooting and dribbling skills and boasting a high basketball IQ, has chosen the University of Memphis as his playground.
Currently a forward for the Tigers, Ashton is making waves as a four-star recruit, securing a spot among the nation’s top 100 players, according to On3.
Standout Performance Against Michigan: A Glimpse Into Ashton’s Potential
- In a recent game against Michigan, Ashton showcased his prowess by scoring an impressive 17 points and sinking 5 three-pointers.
- This standout performance has put him on the radar, solidifying his position as a rising basketball star.
- Hailing from Sierra Canyon High School in California, Ashton shared the court with basketball prodigies like Bronnie James and Justin Pippen, shaping his skills in the crucible of high school basketball excellence.
- Ashton’s lineage is deeply rooted in basketball royalty—his father, Penny Hardaway, a former NBA player and the current head coach of the Memphis Tigers.
- Despite not living together and not being married, Penny and Ashton’s mother, Dion Richardson, are committed to co-parenting Ashton.
The Duncanville Dynasty And A Championship Stint
Ashton’s basketball journey gained momentum at Duncanville, where he played a crucial role in securing the UIL (Texas) 6A state championship for three consecutive seasons.
His contribution as a long, versatile wing, adept at both the three-point shot and post play, showcased his prowess on the court.
A Rising Star On The Recruiting Horizon
Hardaway’s on-court excellence didn’t go unnoticed.
Both Rivals and ESPN bestowed him with a four-star prospect rating, and his recruiting journey witnessed a surge in the past year.
With offers from prestigious institutions such as USC, SMU, Memphis, and Texas Tech, Ashton’s choice to join Sierra Canyon adds another layer of intrigue to his burgeoning career.
Statistical Brilliance And Duncanville’s Legacy
In his junior season, Ashton averaged an impressive 10 points, 2.8 boards, and an outstanding 40 percent from beyond the arc.
Ashton Hardaway Playing Basketball In The Court
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His skills were set to play a pivotal role in Duncanville’s strong core, aiming to build upon their second-place national ranking in the SBLive/Sports Illustrated Power 25 rankings for the 2021-22 season.
Sierra Canyon’s Demand For Talent
Sierra Canyon, a renowned basketball powerhouse, recognizes the value Ashton brings to the team.
The departure of key players like McDonald’s All-American Amari Bailey (UCLA), Ramel Lloyd (Nebraska), and Kijani Wright (USC) creates a void that Ashton’s multifaceted game is poised to fill.
The California Homecoming
For Ashton, this move signifies a return to California, just 45 miles north of his initial stint at Bishop Montgomery in Torrance.
Having previously transferred to Duncanville for his junior season, the familiarity with California’s basketball landscape positions him well for success in his new chapter at Sierra Canyon.
From Freshman Phenom To Basketball Buzz
Ashton Hardaway has been in the spotlight since his high school debut.
Recognized as one of the top freshmen in Southern California during his initial season at Bishop Montgomery, his journey has been marked by consistent growth and recognition.
A Strategic Pivot For Ashton Hardaway
As Ashton Hardaway embarks on this new chapter with Sierra Canyon, the basketball community eagerly anticipates the impact of this strategic move.
With a stellar track record, a robust skill set, and a history of championship success, Ashton’s journey promises to add a compelling chapter to the legacy of Sierra Canyon’s basketball dominance.
This strategic alliance with Bronny James and the formidable Sierra Canyon team sets the stage for an exciting season ahead, showcasing the undeniable prowess of this rising basketball star.
Ashton Hardaway: Parents, Father, Relation To Penny Hardaway, Siblings And Other Updates
n the exciting world of college basketball, a new chapter is unfolding for Ashton Hardaway, a promising four-star forward in the class of 2023.
This young talent has recently committed and signed to play for none other than his father, Penny Hardaway, at the University of Memphis.
The Allure Of Memphis: A Family Affair
When asked about his choice of Memphis, Ashton didn’t hesitate to attribute it to his trust in his father.
He acknowledged Penny Hardaway’s knowledge and commitment to his success, emphasizing the deep familial connection that goes beyond the basketball court.
Co-Parenting Commitment: Nurturing Ashton’s Dreams
Penny’s dedication to co-parenting is evident in his custody of Ashton, active attendance at crucial games, and shared moments of pride in Ashton’s achievements.
Ashton’s Instagram posts often depict the strong bonds he shares with both parents.
Ashton is confident that the rigorous training and hard work, values instilled in him from a young age, will continue at Memphis, contributing to his growth both as an athlete and an individual
The Unique Experience Of Playing For Dad
One of the key factors influencing Ashton’s decision was the opportunity to play under the seasoned guidance of his father, Penny Hardaway.
Ashton believes that his father’s experience at the highest levels of the game adds a unique dimension to his development.
The prospect of learning from someone who has been in his position before, coupled with the presence of his brother Jayden on the team, makes this a rare and exciting opportunity for the Hardaway family
Coaching Legacy And Controversies
Penny Hardaway, not without his share of controversies, recently inked an extension with the Memphis Tigers, committing to coach until the 2027-28 season.
With an 85-43 coaching record, his teams consistently enter the season as formidable contenders, showcasing talents like James Wiseman, Moussa Cisse, and Precious Achiuwa
Nepotism In College Basketball?
The narrative of family ties in coaching extends beyond Penny Hardaway, with successful coaches like Juwan Howard and Jim Boeheim also bringing their sons into their respective programs.
While this tradition dates back to coaching legends like John Thompson, Tubby Smith, and Bobby Knight, it raises pertinent questions about fairness and recruiting dynamics in college basketball
Dion Richardson: A Businesswoman And Supportive Mother
Dion Richardson, Ashton’s mother, is not just a single mom; she’s a successful businesswoman based in Los Angeles.
Actively involved in the AheartAwayFoundation, she supports athletes in reaching their potential. Her company, OffTheCourt, reflects her commitment to providing resources for Ashton’s career.
Family Dynamics: Siblings And Supportive Network
Ashton’s family extends beyond his parents to include siblings Latanfern, Layla, and Jayden.
Despite diverse relationships within the family, a united front of support nurtures Ashton’s growth as a basketball talent.
Dion Richardson’s involvement in organizations like the AheartAwayFoundation underscores a holistic approach to Ashton’s development
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