Once a five-star phenom, now a two-time transfer, Aaron Bradshaw’s college career has been anything but predictable. After a brief stay at Ohio State, the 7-footer is heading south to Memphis, hoping that a fresh start under a former NBA star can help revive his NBA dreams.
Bradshaw, who began his college journey at Kentucky before following John Calipari's departure by transferring to Ohio State, never quite found his footing in Columbus. Despite showing flashes of his immense potential, he averaged just 6.0 points and 2.7 rebounds in 16.9 minutes per game this past season. Those numbers are an improvement from his freshman year at Kentucky (4.9 PPG, 3.3 RPG), but still far from the dominance many expected from the former blue-chip recruit.
Penny time: A new mentor with NBA cred
Now, Bradshaw gets what might be his best shot yet — a chance to learn from Memphis head coach Penny Hardaway, a former NBA All-Star who once shared the spotlight with Shaquille O’Neal in Orlando. Hardaway has the experience to rehabilitate the big man and showcase Bradshaw’s mix of size, shooting touch, and shot-blocking ability. He is tailor-made for Hardaway’s player-friendly system.
Let’s not forget the cultural icon that is Lil Penny — voiced by Chris Rock — who once appeared alongside Hardaway in legendary Nike commercials. If Penny can make a puppet iconic, maybe he can help Bradshaw find his own identity on the court again.
Searching for stability
For Bradshaw, the transfer to Memphis is about more than just minutes or stats. It’s about reclaiming a career that, while not off the rails, has certainly veered from its original path. Once projected as a future NBA lottery pick, Bradshaw’s stock has dipped amid inconsistency, limited production, and the constant movement between programs.
But if there’s any coach who understands what it takes to get to the next level, it’s Penny. Hardaway’s NBA experience, combined with his ability to connect with young players, could be just what Bradshaw needs to finally tap into the upside scouts have drooled over since high school.
One last chance?
Bradshaw’s journey hasn’t gone as planned, but the story isn’t over. With two college seasons under his belt, he enters a crucial year where development, consistency, and health will define whether his next step is to the NBA or another transfer.
Memphis fans should be cautiously optimistic. The tools are there — a 7-footer who can stretch the floor and protect the rim doesn't come around often. Now, with a coach who’s been where Bradshaw wants to go, this could be the turning point.
And if you're not familiar with Penny and Lil Penny, do yourself a favor and check out this legendary commercial — it might just give you a glimpse of the swagger Bradshaw is hoping to bring back.