Tyler Harris granted waiver from NCAA; eligible for 2020-21 season

Jan 22, 2020; Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA; Memphis Tigers guard Tyler Harris (1) shoots over Tulsa Golden Hurricane forward Martins Igbanu (1) during the first half at Reynolds Center. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports

Iowa State basketball has its point guard for the 2020-21 season.

The program announced on Monday that Memphis transfer Tyler Harris has received a waiver for immediate eligibility from the NCAA and will be allowed to suit up for the Cyclones this winter.

Harris, a former four-star recruit from Memphis, appeared in 67 games, starting 15 of them, in the last two seasons for the Tigers, averaging 9.9 points, 1.8 rebounds and 1.4 assists per game while shooting 36.9 percent from the field and 33.4 percent from 3-point range.

“We are really excited for Tyler and his family that his waiver was approved,” Iowa State head coach Steve Prohm said in the school’s press release. “Tyler will bring experience to our team and we look forward to having him out on the court with us this season.”

The 5-foot-9 floor general proved to be a formidable 3-point shooter at the collegiate level, knocking down 138 shots from deep during those two seasons playing for Penny Hardaway’s program. He set a Memphis freshman record with 79 3-pointers in 2018-19.

The official addition of Harris to the 2020-21 backcourt solidifies a group that was already headlined by junior combo guard Rasir Bolton and returning reserve point guard Tre Jackson. The group will also be aided by the addition of DePaul graduate transfer guard Jalen Coleman-Lands plus freshmen Jaden Walker and Darlinstone Dubar.

“I am very excited to be able to play for Iowa State University this season,” Harris said in the release. “I cannot thank God enough for this opportunity he has blessed me with. It has been a long, but peaceful process. I would like to thank everyone for their support, especially ISU’s compliance staff. Big things are in store, let’s get after it, Cyclone Nation!”

The program’s attention will now turn to receiving a similar waiver for Ole Miss transfer Blake Hinson, who was a double-digit scorer during his two seasons playing for the Rebels.