Memphis Grizzlies Team For NBA in Season Tournament 2023 | Squad, Schedule etc.
The Memphis Grizzlies, affectionately known as the Grizz, are a prominent fixture in the vibrant city of Memphis, Tennessee. As a proud member of the Western Conference Southwest Division of the National Basketball Association (NBA), the Grizzlies have been a source of pride and entertainment for basketball enthusiasts and Memphians alike. In this article, we delve into the rich history, key figures, and recent developments surrounding the Memphis Grizzlies.
Also Read: NBA In-Season Tournament Trophy & Prize Money ANNOUNCED
Quick View of Memphis Grizzlies Team
Conference | Western |
Division | Southwest |
Founded | 1995 |
Arena | FedExForum |
Location | Memphis, Tennessee |
Team Colors | Beale Street blue, Memphis midnight blue, steel gray, gold |
Main Sponsor | FedEx |
President | Jason Wexler |
General Manager | Zachary Kleiman |
Head Coach | Taylor Jenkins |
Ownership | Memphis Basketball, LLC (Robert Pera, Chairman and Controlling Owner) |
Affiliation(s) | Memphis Hustle |
Championships | 0 |
Conference Titles | 0 |
Division Titles | 2 (2022, 2023) |
Retired Numbers | 1 (50) |
Memphis Grizzlies Schedule for NBA In Season Schedule 2023
Date | Opponent | Time (CT) | Venue | TV Broadcast |
---|---|---|---|---|
Nov. 3 | Portland Blazers | 9:00 p.m. | Away (Blazers) | Not specified |
Nov. 10 | Utah Jazz | 7:00 p.m. | Home (Grizzlies) | Not specified |
Nov. 14 | Los Angeles Lakers | 9:30 p.m. | Away (Lakers) | Not specified |
Nov. 24 | Phoenix Suns | 4:00 p.m. | Home (Grizzlies) | National TV (TBD) |
Also Read: NBA Eastern Conference & Groups
From Vancouver to Memphis
The journey of the Grizzlies began in 1995 when they were established as an expansion team in Vancouver, Canada. Originally considered to be named the Vancouver Mounties, the franchise eventually adopted the moniker “Grizzlies,” a nod to the indigenous bear species found in British Columbia.
However, after the 2000-01 season, the Grizzlies packed their bags and relocated to Memphis, Tennessee. This move was a significant moment in the history of the franchise, and the team seriously contemplated changing its name to better reflect its new home. Still, the Memphis community rallied behind the Grizzlies, preserving the name and the team’s connection to its past.
Memphis had previously been represented by the Memphis Sounds in the American Basketball Association (ABA) from 1970 to 1975. The arrival of the Grizzlies solidified the city’s basketball legacy.
The Pau Gasol Era (2001-2007)
The Grizzlies made a pivotal draft move in 2001 by selecting Pau Gasol as the third overall pick, trading him to the Grizzlies. This marked the beginning of a new era for the franchise. Gasol made an immediate impact, winning the NBA Rookie of the Year Award.
The team underwent significant changes under the leadership of Hall of Famer Jerry West, who was appointed as the general manager in 2002. Players like Mike Miller and James Posey became instrumental in the team’s success. The Grizzlies earned their first playoff appearance in the 2003-04 season, with Hubie Brown being named NBA Coach of the Year.
Unfortunately, a previous trade that sent away their 2003 NBA draft pick prevented them from selecting future All-Stars like Carmelo Anthony, Chris Bosh, or Dwyane Wade. Despite this, the Grizzlies’ fortunes began to turn, and they became a competitive force in the Western Conference.
Rebuilding (2007-2010)
The Grizzlies endured a rebuilding phase from 2007 to 2010, which included changes in management and the departure of key players. However, the team continued to grow and develop, drafting talents like Mike Conley Jr. in 2007.
In 2008, Pau Gasol was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, a move that ultimately benefited the Grizzlies in the long run. Lionel Hollins was named the permanent head coach in 2009, and the team started showing promise.
The Grit and Grind Era (2010-2017)
The most iconic era in Grizzlies’ history is the “Grit and Grind” era, characterized by tough defense and a relentless style of play. Under the leadership of players like Marc Gasol, Zach Randolph, and Tony Allen, the Grizzlies became known for their physicality and tenacity.
In the 2010-11 season, the team made the playoffs for the first time in five years. They achieved several firsts in franchise history during the 2011 NBA playoffs, including defeating the top-seeded San Antonio Spurs as an eighth seed.
This era also featured memorable playoff runs, including a trip to the Western Conference Finals in the 2012-13 season, where they were eventually defeated by the San Antonio Spurs.
Also Read: Western Conference & Groups for NBA In-Season Tournament
End of an Era (2017-2019)
The “Grit and Grind” era came to an end with the departures of key players like Zach Randolph and Tony Allen. The team missed the playoffs in the 2017-18 season for the first time in nearly a decade. By 2019, the Grizzlies embarked on a new journey, focusing on developing a young core of players.
The Ja Morant Era (2019-present)
The current era of the Memphis Grizzlies is marked by the emergence of young talents like Ja Morant, Brandon Clarke, and Dillon Brooks. Morant, in particular, made an immediate impact and was named the NBA Rookie of the Year in the 2019-20 season.
Under the guidance of Head Coach Taylor Jenkins, the team has shown steady improvement. The Grizzlies earned a playoff spot in the 2020-21 season, solidifying their status as a rising force in the Western Conference.
In the 2021-22 season, the Grizzlies clinched their first division title in franchise history and secured the second seed in the Western Conference. Although they faced challenges in the playoffs, it was a testament to the team’s growth and potential.
As of the 2022-23 season, the Grizzlies continue to be a competitive force in the NBA, with Jaren Jackson Jr. emerging as an All-Star and the team’s commitment to success remaining unwavering.
Memphis Grizzlies All time rivalries with other NBA Teams
The Memphis Grizzlies have had several notable rivalries with other NBA teams over the years. Some of their key rivalries include:
- San Antonio Spurs: The Grizzlies and Spurs had a fierce rivalry in the Western Conference during the late 2000s and early 2010s. They faced each other multiple times in the playoffs, and the matchups were known for their physical and defensive style of play.
- Los Angeles Clippers: The Grizzlies had a competitive rivalry with the Clippers during the “Grit and Grind” era. These playoff matchups were intense and featured star players like Marc Gasol and Zach Randolph for Memphis and Chris Paul and Blake Griffin for the Clippers.
- Oklahoma City Thunder: The Grizzlies and Thunder had several playoff showdowns in the Western Conference. These matchups often went down to the wire and were marked by the battle between the Thunder’s Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook and the Grizzlies’ grit and toughness.
- Dallas Mavericks: The rivalry between the Grizzlies and Mavericks was notable for their hard-fought playoff series. The teams had contrasting styles, with the Grizzlies relying on their defense and the Mavericks on their offensive prowess.
- Portland Trail Blazers: The Grizzlies have had competitive matchups with the Trail Blazers in the Western Conference. These games often had playoff implications, and both teams fought hard for postseason berths.
- Los Angeles Lakers: While not as frequent, the Grizzlies have had rivalry moments with the Lakers, particularly in the playoffs. Memorable matchups include their first-round series in 2011 when the Grizzlies upset the Lakers.
Memphis Grizzlies Team All time NBA Stats
Certainly, here’s the table rearranged with the requested columns: Season, League, Team, Wins, Losses, Playoffs, and Top WS:
Season | League | Team | Wins | Losses | Playoffs | Top WS |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2023-24 | NBA | Memphis Grizzlies | 0 | 0 | ||
2022-23 | NBA | Memphis Grizzlies | 51 | 31 | Lost W. Conf. 1st Rnd. | J. Jackson (6.6) |
2021-22 | NBA | Memphis Grizzlies | 56 | 26 | Lost W. Conf. Semis | D. Bane (7.2) |
2020-21 | NBA | Memphis Grizzlies | 38 | 34 | Lost W. Conf. 1st Rnd. | J. Valančiūnas (7.8) |
2019-20 | NBA | Memphis Grizzlies | 34 | 39 | J. Valančiūnas (7.0) | |
2018-19 | NBA | Memphis Grizzlies | 33 | 49 | M. Conley (8.0) | |
2017-18 | NBA | Memphis Grizzlies | 22 | 60 | T. Evans (4.2) | |
2016-17 | NBA | Memphis Grizzlies | 43 | 39 | Lost W. Conf. 1st Rnd. | M. Conley (10.0) |
2015-16 | NBA | Memphis Grizzlies | 42 | 40 | Lost W. Conf. 1st Rnd. | M. Conley (5.3) |
2014-15 | NBA | Memphis Grizzlies | 55 | 27 | Lost W. Conf. Semis | M. Gasol (10.2) |
2013-14 | NBA | Memphis Grizzlies | 50 | 32 | Lost W. Conf. 1st Rnd. | M. Conley (8.2) |
2012-13 | NBA | Memphis Grizzlies | 56 | 26 | Lost W. Conf. Finals | M. Gasol (11.5) |
2011-12 | NBA | Memphis Grizzlies | 41 | 25 | Lost W. Conf. 1st Rnd. | M. Gasol (8.2) |
2010-11 | NBA | Memphis Grizzlies | 46 | 36 | Lost W. Conf. Semis | Z. Randolph (10.5) |
2009-10 | NBA | Memphis Grizzlies | 40 | 42 | Z. Randolph (9.7) | |
2008-09 | NBA | Memphis Grizzlies | 24 | 58 | M. Gasol (6.4) | |
2007-08 | NBA | Memphis Grizzlies | 22 | 60 | M. Miller (5.0) | |
2006-07 | NBA | Memphis Grizzlies | 22 | 60 | P. Gasol (6.9) | |
2005-06 | NBA | Memphis Grizzlies | 49 | 33 | Lost W. Conf. 1st Rnd. | P. Gasol (12.0) |
2004-05 | NBA | Memphis Grizzlies | 45 | 37 | Lost W. Conf. 1st Rnd. | S. Battier (7.8) |
2003-04 | NBA | Memphis Grizzlies | 50 | 32 | Lost W. Conf. 1st Rnd. | J. Posey (10.0) |
2002-03 | NBA | Memphis Grizzlies | 28 | 54 | P. Gasol (8.5) | |
2001-02 | NBA | Memphis Grizzlies | 23 | 59 | P. Gasol (7.6) | |
2000-01 | NBA | Vancouver Grizzlies | 23 | 59 | S. Abdur-Rahim (8.5) | |
1999-00 | NBA | Vancouver Grizzlies | 22 | 60 | S. Abdur-Rahim (8.8) | |
1998-99 | NBA | Vancouver Grizzlies | 8 | 42 | S. Abdur-Rahim (4.6) | |
1997-98 | NBA | Vancouver Grizzlies | 19 | 63 | S. Abdur-Rahim (6.9) | |
1996-97 | NBA | Vancouver Grizzlies | 14 | 68 | G. Anthony (3.5) | |
1995-96 | NBA | Vancouver Grizzlies | 15 | 67 | G. Anthony (4.8) |
This version of the table includes the specified columns and is organized by season, league, team, wins, losses, playoffs, and top win shares (WS)
All time Memphis Grizzlies Record
Team Name | Total Games | Won | Lost | PCT | First Season | Divison |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Memphis Grizzlies | 2,229 | 971 | 1,258 | .436 | 1995–96 | Southwest |
Memphis Grizzlies Squad
NO | PLAYER | POS | HT | WT | EXP |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
4 | Steven Adams | C | 6-11 | 265 | 10 |
7 | Santi Aldama | PF | 7-1 | 215 | 2 |
22 | Desmond Bane | SG | 6-5 | 215 | 3 |
— | Tarik Biberovic | SF | 6-7 | 218 | R |
— | Josh Christopher | SG | 6-4 | 215 | 2 |
15 | Brandon Clarke | C | 6-8 | 215 | 4 |
0 | Jacob Gilyard | PG | 5-9 | 160 | 1 |
— | Gregory Jackson | PF | 6-8 | 214 | R |
13 | Jaren Jackson Jr. | PF | 6-10 | 242 | 5 |
10 | Luke Kennard | SG | 6-5 | 206 | 6 |
46 | John Konchar | SG | 6-5 | 210 | 4 |
3 | Jake LaRavia | SF | 6-7 | 235 | 1 |
6 | Kenneth Lofton Jr. | PF | 6-6 | 275 | 1 |
27 | David Roddy | SF | 6-4 | 255 | 1 |
— | Derrick Rose | PG | 6-2 | 200 | 14 |
— | Marcus Smart | PG | 6-4 | 220 | 9 |
2 | Xavier Tillman | PF | 6-7 | 245 | 3 |
— | Isaiah Todd | PF | 6-9 | 219 | 2 |
8 | Ziaire Williams | SF | 6-9 | 185 | 2 |
5 | Vince Williams Jr. | SF | 6-4 | 205 | 1 |
Memphis Grizzlies All Time best Players
Rank | Player | Position | Points | Rebounds | Assists | Steals | Blocks |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Marc Gasol | Center | 11,684 | 5,942 | 3,545 | 1,015 | 1,055 |
2 | Zach Randolph | Power Forward | 9,261 | 5,612 | 1,170 | 523 | 210 |
3 | Mike Conley | Point Guard | 11,733 | 2,151 | 4,509 | 1,161 | 123 |
4 | Pau Gasol | Power Forward / Center | 8,966 | 5,902 | 1,241 | 548 | 877 |
5 | Tony Allen | Shooting Guard | 5,215 | 2,376 | 1,282 | 1,326 | 131 |
6 | Mike Miller | Small Forward | 6,168 | 2,425 | 1,479 | 626 | 168 |
7 | Rudy Gay | Small Forward | 8,562 | 2,822 | 1,212 | 639 | 417 |
8 | Shareef Abdur-Rahim | Power Forward | 7,801 | 3,334 | 1,049 | 530 | 353 |
9 | Shane Battier | Small Forward | 4,254 | 2,350 | 889 | 568 | 492 |
10 | Ja Morant | Point Guard | 3,607 | 825 | 1,418 | 128 | 62 |
Notable Figures and Achievements
Owners
Throughout its history, the Grizzlies have seen ownership changes, with Robert Pera being the current controlling owner. His leadership has brought stability to the franchise.
Sponsors
The team has forged partnerships with various sponsors over the years, contributing to its financial stability and community involvement.
Captains and Players
From Pau Gasol to Marc Gasol, Zach Randolph to Ja Morant, the Grizzlies have been home to numerous star players who have left their mark on the franchise and the city of Memphis.
Coaches
Coaches like Hubie Brown, Lionel Hollins, and Taylor Jenkins have played vital roles in shaping the team’s identity and guiding it through different eras.
Schedule
The Grizzlies’ schedule is a reflection of their competitive spirit, as they face off against other NBA teams in pursuit of victory.
Ambassador
The Grizzlies serve as ambassadors for the city of Memphis, promoting the culture, values, and community of the city both on and off the court.
The Memphis Grizzlies have come a long way since their days in Vancouver, and they continue to captivate basketball fans with their resilience, determination, and exciting style of play. As the team looks to the future, Memphians can undoubtedly expect more thrilling moments and memorable seasons from their beloved Grizzlies.
Ownership and Leadership:
The Memphis Grizzlies have seen several changes in ownership and leadership over the years. The team is currently owned by Robert J. Pera, a communications technology magnate, who purchased the franchise in 2012. Pera’s ownership has ushered in a new era for the Grizzlies, marked by a commitment to building a competitive team with a strong focus on player development.
In terms of leadership, the Grizzlies have had several head coaches throughout their history. Notable coaches include Hubie Brown, who led the team to its first playoff appearance, and Lionel Hollins, who played a crucial role in the “Grit and Grind” era. In 2019, Taylor Jenkins took over as the head coach and has been instrumental in developing the team’s young talent.
Sponsors and Partnerships:
Like all NBA teams, the Memphis Grizzlies have secured numerous sponsorships and partnerships that support the team financially and enhance the fan experience. These partnerships often include deals with local and national businesses, as well as global brands.
Some of the key sponsors and partners associated with the Grizzlies may include major corporations, local businesses, and brands that align with the team’s values and mission. These partnerships can encompass areas such as jersey sponsorships, arena naming rights, and promotional collaborations.
Team Captain and Players:
The team captain of the Memphis Grizzlies plays a crucial role in leading the team both on and off the court. While team captains can change from season to season, they are typically chosen for their leadership qualities, experience, and ability to inspire their teammates.
As for the players, the Grizzlies have had a diverse roster of talented athletes over the years. Some notable players who have worn the Grizzlies’ jersey include Pau Gasol, Marc Gasol, Zach Randolph, Mike Conley, and more recently, Ja Morant. These players have left a significant impact on the franchise and have contributed to the team’s success in various eras.
Schedule and Ambassadors:
The Memphis Grizzlies, like all NBA teams, have a regular season schedule that consists of games against other teams in the league. The NBA in season tournament typically runs from November 3 to 28, with playoffs following for qualifying teams.
The Grizzlies also have ambassadors who represent the team in the community and promote the franchise’s values. Ambassadors may include former players, local celebrities, and community leaders who help build a strong connection between the team and the Memphis community. They often participate in charity events, youth programs, and other community initiatives.
Uniform Evolution:
The Grizzlies’ uniforms have undergone various changes over the years, reflecting shifts in design trends and branding. From their initial turquoise and red accents in Vancouver to the adoption of navy blue and gold in Memphis, the uniforms have evolved to represent the team’s identity.
The team’s recent uniform changes, including the “City” editions, have paid homage to Memphis’ rich cultural heritage, from the civil rights movement to the city’s music history. These designs have not only resonated with fans but also celebrated the unique spirit of Memphis.
Community Engagement:
One of the defining features of the Memphis Grizzlies is their deep-rooted connection to the community. The franchise has been actively involved in numerous community initiatives, supporting education, youth development, and social justice causes.
Through programs like “Grizzlies Prep” and “Grizzlies Foundation,” the team has made a significant impact on local education and youth empowerment. Additionally, the Grizzlies have used their platform to advocate for social justice and equality, aligning with the values of the Memphis community.
Conclusion:
The Memphis Grizzlies are more than just an NBA team; they are an integral part of the fabric of Memphis, Tennessee. From their origins in Vancouver to their relocation to Memphis and the various eras of success and growth, the Grizzlies have left an indelible mark on the NBA landscape.
With a promising young core led by Ja Morant and a commitment to community engagement and social justice, the Grizzlies are poised for continued success both on and off the court. As they strive to bring an NBA championship to Memphis, they remain a source of pride and inspiration for their passionate fan base and the city they call home.