Memphis Tigers Unveil Statue of Keith Lee in Front of Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium
Memphis, Tenn. — A large crowd gathered today outside Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium as the University of Memphis officially unveiled a bronze statue honoring one of its greatest basketball legends, Keith Lee. The statue, positioned prominently at the main entrance of the stadium facing Tiger Lane, is meant to celebrate Lee’s impact on Memphis athletics — his achievements, his legacy, and what he has meant to the city and the program.
—
A Legend Cast in Bronze
The new monument shows Keith Lee in a dynamic pose — dribbling at the top of the key, eyes forward, muscles coiled, as if ready to make the next signature move. The sculpture captures not just his skill but his determination, leadership, and the flair that made him a fan favorite. At its base, engraved in stone, are key stats and honors: his All-American selections, school records, and major milestones from his career at Memphis State (now University of Memphis)
The Ceremony
The event was attended by:
University officials, including the Athletic Director and the President of Memphis
Former teammates and coaches
Family of Keith Lee
Fans, alumni, and current Memphis Tigers players
Speakers reflected on Lee’s arrival in Memphis in the early 1980s, his rapid rise as a dominant force in college basketball, and the way he helped put Memphis on the national radar. A moment of silence was held for his legacy; then applause broke out as the covering dropped and the statue was revealed.
Keith Lee himself was present, speaking briefly: “This city, this university, these fans — they believed in me,” he said. “I learned just as much here as I taught. I hope this statue reminds the next generation to work hard, stay humble, and dream big.”
Why Keith Lee?
Keith Lee’s career in Memphis remains iconic. Some of his key accomplishments include:
Leading the Tigers (then Memphis State) from 1981-1985, becoming one of the most dominant players in the program’s history
Earning multiple All-American honors
Breaking school records for scoring, rebounding, and steals
Inspiring future players and reinvigorating fan support for the program
The statue is intended not only to honor those achievements, but also to serve as a permanent beacon of inspiration just outside Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium — a gathering place for fans, a destination for recruits, and a reminder every game day of what greatness looks like
The Setting: Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium
Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium has long been the home of Memphis Tigers football, the Liberty Bowl game, and many community events.
The stadium has gone through several renovations in recent years. The university and city have invested in premium seating, hospitality areas, improved infrastructure, and upgrades to the fan experience. The statue’s placement in front of the main entrance intersects with the stadium’s ongoing effort to connect its past, present, and future. The bronze figure of Keith Lee aligns with the aesthetic of the new plaza, signage, and enhanced concourse extensions.
What This Means for the University & Community
Recruiting tool: For prospective student-athletes visiting Memphis, the statue symbolizes that the university values its legends and invests in its tradition.
Cultural pride: Keith Lee is more than a basketball star; for many in Memphis, he represents resilience, excellence, and the city’s basketball pedigree. The statue is a civic symbol as well as a sports monument.
Fan engagement: On game days, the statue becomes a meeting point, a photo spot, and a pause before kickoff or tipoff. For alumni and fans, it’s nostalgic; for kids, it’s inspirational.
Preserving history: As the stadium and athletic facilities modernize, it’s easy for memory to fade. Statues like this help anchor history in physical spa
Looking Ahead
The unveiling is only the beginning. The University of Memphis has hinted that this is part of a broader plan to honor the history of its athletics programs — more statues and memorials may follow. Talks include:
Honoring other Memphis legends across sports (football, track, more basketball figures)
Enhancing the stadium exterior landscape — adding walkways, plaques, museum-style displays around Tiger Lane
Using technology (QR codes, augmented reality) so visitors can learn more about the individuals honored
Final Thoughts
Today, Memphis laid another stone in the foundation of its proud athletic tradition — a statue not just to remember what Keith Lee did, but to remind everyone what he meant and what similar greatness still looks like. Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium, already an icon for Tigers football, now also embraces one of the greats of Memphis basketball. It’s a tangible legacy, in bronze, for future generations to look up to.
