From the looks of things, the Memphis basketball team might well be on its way back toward the top of the metrics leaderboard in terms of defense.

Two seasons ago, the Tigers were No. 1 in adjusted defensive efficiency. Last season, they dropped back to No. 33 in those same rankings. In last week's open practice, Penny Hardaway's team was split up for an intrasquad scrimmage in front of hundreds of fans and a couple dozen media members. Points (a combined 13) were at a premium. Elite-level defense or a sign of offensive issues?

On this week's episode of the Tiger Basketball Podcast, beat writer Jason Munz and columnist Mark Giannotto dissect what they saw and examine ways the team can overcome what might be its biggest weakness. They also recap what Hardaway and his players said about the IARP decision and look ahead to the program's Pro Day.