This is an opinion column.

I like Memphis. Let’s get that straight before we soak up all the sauce and bite into the meat of this matter.

I like the ribs and the blues, the vibe on Beale Street and the buzz in the FedEd Forum when the Grizzlies or the Tigers shift into full swagger.

I’ve watched the Grizzlies with Gene Bartow, who was treated like royalty and introduced me to Jerry West, and took my sons to their first NBA game there after a park ball game years ago. Steph Curry and the Warriors got run out of the building and into the river.

I’ve covered the SEC Tournament in the old Pyramid and the Conference USA Tournament in the Forum, and as satisfying as it was to watch UAB handle Memphis here last month, I’m still hoping to see the Blazers beat the Tigers there at least once before I visit with Coach Bartow again.

Anyone up for a March 3rd road trip?