Memphis, Tennessee, August 26, 2025
News Summary
Ed Scott, the athletic director at the University of Memphis, publicly discussed the school’s rejection by the Big 12 Conference during a golf event. Despite efforts from university president Bill Hardgrave over the past year, the bid was declined. The Tigers remain in the American Athletic Conference, while Memphis announced a new sponsorship with FedEx that will enhance their sports branding. This partnership aims to provide greater financial stability as they navigate the complexities of conference affiliations.
Memphis, Tennessee – Ed Scott, the athletic director at the University of Memphis, spoke publicly about the university’s recent rejection by the Big 12 Conference during the 30th annual AutoZone Liberty Bowl Golf Classic at TPC Southwind. The University had submitted a bid for membership in July, which was ultimately declined by the Big 12 board. This rejection comes after substantial efforts from university president Bill Hardgrave, who spent over a year advocating the university’s case to Big 12 leaders.
The rejection hit Scott personally, drawing a comparison to the feeling of being turned down after a job interview. Despite the disappointment, he highlighted that there was a growing recognition of the university’s continued efforts and resolve. Currently, the University of Memphis Tigers remain in the American Athletic Conference, while the Big 12 expands to accommodate 16 member schools.
Scott addressed the potential reasons for the Big 12’s lack of interest, countering any short-sighted perceptions. He noted that Memphis is now designated as an R1 research institution, boasting improvements such as a football stadium renovation plan and a record department-wide GPA achieved last year. Additionally, last season saw both Memphis football and menโs basketball ranked in the AP Top 25, a notable achievement as they joined only six other schools outside the Power Four to attain this ranking.
In an interesting twist regarding conference affiliation, Scott revealed he had previously declined an offer from the Pac-12 Conference, citing financial disadvantages for the university as the primary reason. This highlights the challenging dynamics of conference realignment in college athletics.
On a positive note, Scott announced that the University of Memphis has entered into a new full sponsorship agreement with FedEx Corporation, transitioning from a prior Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal. This sponsorship will visibly enhance the university’s sports brand, with the FedEx logo prominently displayed in the end zones of Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium. Additionally, fans will see a joint logo representing both the Memphis Tiger and FedEx on the field sidelines with the tagline, “Moving Memphis Athletics Forward. Together.” This new visual branding will debut during the Memphis Tigers’ upcoming game against Chattanooga on August 30.
Scott and Dr. Bill Hardgrave both expressed appreciation for FedEx’s firm commitment to the university and the surrounding community, suggesting that this partnership could pave the way for greater financial stability and growth within the athletic programs moving forward.
The recent discussions reveal a complicated yet hopeful outlook for the University of Memphis. While navigating challenges related to conference affiliations, the strengthened partnership with FedEx reflects the institutionโs resilience and determination to push forward, despite recent setbacks.
FAQ
What conference did the University of Memphis attempt to join?
The University of Memphis attempted to join the Big 12 Conference.
What was Ed Scottโs reaction to the rejection?
Ed Scott described the rejection as personally hurtful and akin to being turned down after a job interview.
How long did the University president work on the proposal to the Big 12?
University president Bill Hardgrave spent over a year pitching the university’s proposal to Big 12 leaders.
What significant achievements did Memphis athletics attain last season?
Both Memphis football and menโs basketball were ranked in the AP Top 25.
What new agreement has the University of Memphis made with FedEx?
The University of Memphis transitioned its previous NIL agreement into a full sponsorship arrangement, prominently featuring the FedEx logo.
When will fans see the new logos on the field?
The new branding will debut during the Memphis vs. Chattanooga game on August 30.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Conference Bid | Attempted membership in the Big 12 Conference, rejected. |
| Duration of Proposal Effort | Over a year spent by University president Bill Hardgrave. |
| Athletic Achievements | Football and basketball both ranked in AP Top 25 last season. |
| New Sponsorship with FedEx | Transitioned to full sponsorship; new logos to debut against Chattanooga. |
| Stadium Branding | FedEx logo to be featured in the end zones, combined logo on sidelines. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
NAACP and Environmental Groups Challenge Data Center Pollution in Memphis
Bartlett Plans Major Expansion for Union Depot Development
Memphis Resident Wins $2 Million in Powerball
Memphis Schools Restructure Leadership Amid Academic Challenges
New Immigration Policy Screens for ‘Anti-Americanism’
Shelby County Commission Delays Vote on School Board Election Reset
Big Changes for Gaza Residents Seeking U.S. Visas
Tragic Night at Brooklyn Lounge: Three Lives Lost
Memphis Flyer Marks 30 Years of Alternative News
Progress in Mental Health Awareness
Additional Resources
- Daily Memphian: Ed Scott on Big 12 Rejection
- Wikipedia: University of Memphis
- Commercial Appeal: Memphis FedEx Sponsorship
- Google Search: FedEx University of Memphis sponsorship
- Go Tigers Go: FedEx and Memphis Athletics Sponsorship
- Google Scholar: Memphis Tigers athletics
- CBS Sports: Ed Scott on Big 12 Rejection
- Encyclopedia Britannica: College Football
- Fox 13 Memphis: FedEx and University of Memphis
- Google News: Memphis Tigers
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
