“I feel like it was my duty to do so,” Penny Hardaway revealed during a recent podcast, explaining his decision to forego opportunities with TNT and ESPN to support a friend. 4× NBA All-Star and 2× All-NBA First Team player, known for his career with the Orlando Magic and later stints with the Phoenix Suns, New York Knicks, and Miami Heat, shifted gears when his friend asked for his help in managing the Lester Middle School’s basketball team. This marked a pivotal moment in Hardaway’s post-NBA journey.

Hardaway reflected on how injuries hastened his NBA exit earlier than expected, leading him to believe it was all a part of a higher plan. “I think God always has a plan and a purpose for you,” he said, via the Let’s Be Clear podcast. Upon retiring, he immediately dove into coaching alongside Merriweather, who was battling colon cancer.

Initially focused on joining ESPN or TNT, Hardaway’s plans changed due to Merriweather’s dedication to the middle school team. Their shared neighborhood roots and Merriweather’s passion compelled Hardaway to make a difference in young lives, steering him toward coaching.“I feel like it was my duty to do so and Des, he was the heart and soul,” Hardaway emphasized, recalling Merriweather’s infectious energy and commitment to mentoring young athletes.

Penny Hardaway embarked on his coaching journey in 2011 at Lester Middle School, driven by his friendship with Desmond Merriweather. Together, they achieved 6 championships—3 in middle school and 3 in high school. Sadly, Merriweather passed away in 2015 before witnessing the other victories, but his legacy lives on through their shared mission.

Penny Hardaway’s aspiration to manage an NBA Team

Penny Hardaway’s leadership led the Lester Lions to the West Tennessee State title with an impressive 28-3 season record. This success laid the foundation for Hardaway’s next step: taking the helm at the Memphis Tigers in March 2018 replacing Tubby Smith. Despite the success he has achieved in his coaching career so far, he still aspires for more and looks to coach in the pro league once.

In the Point Forward Podcast, Hardaway expressed his long-standing ambition, discussing his dream of coaching in the NBA. “It’s actually a dream of mine to coach at the NBA level,” he admitted, highlighting his deep-rooted passion for the game. Back in 2021, Hardaway was a “serious contender” for the Orlando Magic job. However, Steve Clifford was ultimately the one who made the cut.

Furthermore, Hardaway elaborated on his aspirations, stating, “I think about it daily,” as he considered the timeline for achieving this career milestone. “But I definitely want to do it,” he affirmed.

Numerous college basketball coaches have successfully transitioned to the NBA, including figures like Mike Montgomery, Brad Stevens, and Tim Floyd. Given Hardaway’s coaching record and dedication, NBA fans will be eager to see which team he leads in the future.

Stay tuned for more such updates, and to follow what Shaq’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, has to say about the infamous Shaq-Kobe feud, Caitlin Clark’s Olympic snub, and more, watch this video.