Who Run It?: The Memphis Grizzlies
The Memphis Grizzlies are all grown up and poised for a playoff run. Lead Sports Editor Will Lyons reports.
In a league of going all in on a championship contender or tanking at any cost, the Memphis Grizzlies have figured out how to catapult themselves into contention. Phenomenal drafts that fit the “Grit N Grind” have altered the hierarchy of the western conference.
The Timeline
The days of guaranteed playoff appearances had come to an end in Memphis. The team finished 14th in the west following the departure of long time fixtures Tony Allen, Marc Gasol and Zach Randolph. Memphis gets a pick that is the first glimmer of hope for the transitioning franchise.
2017
A well executed trade acquiring Canadian shooting guard Dillon Brooks ends up being one of the steals of the 2017 draft. A gifted scorer and defender with a toughness that is a perfect fit in Memphis.
2018
With the fourth pick in the 2018 draft, the Memphis Grizzlies select the 6'11" big man from Michigan State, Jaren Jackson Jr. JJJ is a player that is a unicorn of sorts. He can play either spot in the front court while offering the coveted spacing and rim protection that is a necessity in the modern era. He is also athletic enough to flourish in transition. This is the type of building block that sets you up for success if it pans out.
2019
After finishing 12th in the Western Conference, the Draft Lottery rewarded the Grizzlies. They used the second overall pick to select the electric point guard from Murray State University, by way of South Carolina, Ja Morant. Ja put on such a show in college that it was debated by some if he should be the top player taken over the phenom Zion Williamson.
Ja made an immediate impact averaging 17.8 points and 7 assists on his way to All Rookie First Team and Rookie of the Year honors. The Grizzlies ceiling continued to rise as Ja and the other roster pieces improved. But Morant is the type of player that takes you from a bottom feeder to a playoff team or even a possible championship contender.
He is a favorite across the league due to his exciting play style. He pairs otherworldly athleticism with street ball flair and unshakable confidence. A true adopted son of Memphis who is the basketball form of the energy Young Dolph, Pooh Shiesty and Big 30 put onto instrumentals. To put it simply, Ja is about that action on the court and is unapologetically himself off the court. A fearless leader that happens to be one of the fastest improving players and most athletic floor generals of all time. Memphis struck gold with the first time All Star and current MVP candidate.
2020
Desmond Bane was drafted 30th overall by the Boston Celtics but Memphis did not waste anytime acquiring the the walking bucket out of TCU. He was brought in where his shooting touch was an immediate upgrade for the Grizzlies where he made All-Rookie Second Team. After a well orchestrated couple seasons the Grizzlies were looking to make some noise.
Present Day: 2021–22 Season
With the league currently on pause due to All Star Weekend this is the perfect time to reflect on the Grizzlies season to date. They are currently third in the Western Conference with a 41–19 record. A true coming of age season that has some of the energy of a young OKC Thunder team making a Finals appearance in 2012.
The pairing of JJJ, Bane and Morant elevate a deceptively deep roster to a contender. The versatility of JJJ, the scoring of one of the most improved players in Desmond Bane and superstar Morant have put the basketball world on notice. Ja was voted to be an NBA All Star Starter for the first time in his career joining the cream of the crop on a stage only fit for the greats. His phenomenal play also has him firmly planted in MVP conversations with averages of 26.8 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 6.9 APG.
Outlook
Seeing a promising young player take a leap is common in the NBA but we are on the brink of something special in Memphis as the entire team seems to be taking a leap at the same time. The Grizzlies play a smart, tough and exciting brand of basketball that I consider a must watch and worth the purchase of NBA League Pass. Simply put, the Grizzlies are here to stay so get your popcorn ready as we watch the ascension of the NBA’s next great small market team.
