Star guard DeeDee Hagemann won the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, while head coach Alex Simmons was named Coach of the Year in a historic moment for the Memphis Tigers women’s basketball team. This outstanding dual honor highlights a season of outstanding accomplishments and represents a critical turning point in the team’s history.
Alex Simmons: Setting New Standards for the Tigers
On April 6, 2023, Alex Simmons, a native of Tennessee and two-time NCAA National Champion, was named the 13th head coach in the history of the Memphis Tigers women’s basketball program.
She had a solid five-season record of 90-58 at Gardner-Webb University prior to her employment. Notably, Simmons won the Big South Coach of the Year award in 2022–2023 after leading the Runnin’ Bulldogs to a 29–5 record, which secured them a spot in the NCAA Tournament and the Big South Conference title.
Simmons has had a noteworthy basketball career. She helped the University of Tennessee win back-to-back NCAA National Championships in 2007 and 2008 while playing for the storied Pat Summitt from 2004 to 2009.
Her experience as a national champion has undoubtedly influenced her coaching philosophy and approach.
Simmons was excited to return to her home state and run a program with a lot of promise when she first arrived in Memphis. “I’m thrilled to be back home in my home state to play for the Memphis Tiger women’s basketball team,” she said. This program’s enthusiasm is contagious, and the city is known for its basketball culture.
Simmons made an immediate impression in her first season with the Tigers. Her strategic skill and ability to motivate her players were evident in the team’s impressive development. Under her direction, the Tigers developed a resilient and cohesive culture in addition to improving their on-court play.
DeeDee Hagemann: An Outstanding Season That Earned MVP Awards
Detroit, Michigan native DeeDee Hagemann joined the Memphis Tigers with a strong family history. She was ranked No. 5 at her position and No. 23 nationwide by ESPNW HoopGurlz, and she was voted Michigan’s Miss Basketball and MaxPreps Michigan Player of the Year in her senior year (2021).
Hagemann averaged 12.3 points and 5.3 assists per game before attending Memphis, earning him a spot on the All-Big Ten Second Team.
Hagemann’s play has been essential to the Tigers’ success in her first season with the organization. She demonstrated her ability to plan the offense and produce in key situations by averaging 12.9 points and 5.9 assists per game.
She is a worthy recipient of the Most Valuable Player award, which she has earned via her leadership on the court and constant brilliance.
A Season to Recall: Group Accomplishments and Significant Events
The Tigers’ season has been marked by noteworthy accomplishments that showcase both individual brilliance and teamwork. The club showed tactical adaptability, defensive sturdiness, and a revitalized offensive approach under Coach Simmons’ direction. Together, these factors created a season that will go down in history as a watershed in the program’s development.
In addition to recognizing Simmons and Hagemann’s efforts, the team’s collaborative attitude is highlighted by their shared Coach of the Year and MVP awards. This season’s success has been largely attributed to the players’ commitment, the assistant coaches’ assistance, and the steadfast support of the supporters.
Looking Ahead: Establishing a Firm Basis
Alex Simmons and DeeDee Hagemann’s acknowledgment is a result of their hard work and a starting point for their future goals. Coach Simmons’ ability to turn potential into performance is demonstrated by her win of Coach of the Year. Her dedication to player development and strategic insights have raised the bar for the program.
The MVP honor for Hagemann not only recognizes her exceptional play this season but also lays the groundwork for her future development as a player. As the Tigers look to capitalize on their success this season, her leadership both on and off the court will be essential.
These honors have a wider effect on the institution and the town of Memphis. Young players and the fan base have been inspired by the Tigers’ success, which has rekindled interest in and pride in women’s basketball. Under Coach Simmons’ direction, the program’s rising trend should draw support and talent, strengthening its standing in collegiate basketball.
In conclusion
With DeeDee Hagemann winning MVP and Alex Simmons winning Coach of the Year, the Memphis Tigers women’s basketball team’s recent achievements highlight an incredible chapter in the program’s history. These accolades are a testament to the team’s perseverance, commitment, and collaboration, which have helped them reach new heights. The Tigers’ foundation from this season provides a viable route to continued success and excellence as they look to the future.