Memphis Tigers Receive Unfortunate News Amid Eligibility Dispute with NCAA
In a troubling development for the University of Memphis Tigers football program, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) has renewed
pressure in a legal battle that could have lasting consequences for the Tigers’ recent on-field achievements.The NCAA is seeking to enforce its “rule of restitution” in the ongoing eligibility lawsuit involving former Memphis wide receiver Cortez Braham a case that could see team records, wins and awards affected even though Memphis was not a party to the original litigation.
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Eligibility Ruling Could Return to Court
Cortez Braham, who transferred to Memphis and played during the 2025 season, successfully sued the NCAA over restrictions related to eligibility and was allowed to compete for the Tigers after a judge granted him a preliminary injunction. That ruling allowed him to take the field for Memphis in 2025 under controversy.
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However, the NCAA has now signaled that it intends to pursue continued litigation not just against Braham, but potentially against the Memphis program itself. The association says it may seek to apply its restitution rule, which could result in vacating victories, forcing the return of awards, and imposing financial penalties on the school. �
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Why This Matters
The NCAA’s position represents a significant escalation in the dispute over athlete eligibility and could create complex implications for Memphis’ recent seasons. Although the Tigers were not involved in the initial legal challenge, the enforcement of the restitution rule could still extend to them because of Braham’s participation.
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Oral argument in the ongoing case is scheduled for March 2026, and legal observers across college sports are watching closely. How the NCAA proceeds could influence not just Memphis, but also other programs caught in eligibility disputes across collegiate athletics.
Impact on the Program
Memphis enjoyed a strong 2025 football campaign, including several high-profile performances. But the prospect of retroactive penalties — and the legal uncertainty surrounding them — casts a shadow over those accomplishments. �
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For Tigers fans and college football followers, the next few weeks will be critical. The outcome of this case may determine whether Memphis’ 2025 results stand as a proud part of the program’s history or if they become part of a cautionary tale about eligibility and NCAA enforcement.
