Sharon Brown is a University of Memphis graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Professional Studies with a concentration in Legal Studies. Born and raised in the Mississippi Delta, Sharon is one of the Memphis Grizzlies beat writers for the Memphis Flyer. She has created a niche in the industry by co-founding All Heart in Hoop City — a unique community of women sportswriters.
Tyus Jones (Credit: Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)
The ‘hero’ on Monday night was Tyus and not Tyler (Herro) for the Memphis Grizzlies. Not all heroes wear capes but they might have ‘Stones.’
Tyus Jones, aka Stones, stepped up in the absence of Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson, Jr., and sharpshooter Desmond Bane to secure a 101-93 victory over the Miami Heat.
Jones finished with a career-high 28 points, and added 10 assists, and two steals while shooting 10-of-16 to help the Grizzlies to improve to 15-9 on the season.
Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins talked about the importance of having Jones when Morant is sidelined. “When Ja [Morant] is out, for Tyus to step in … he’s had a couple of moments so far this season with Ja out,” said Jenkins. “This was definitely his best game with Ja out, and obviously with [Jaren Jackson Jr.] and [John Konchar] out.”
Jenkins added, “He is back because he means so much to us beyond just a game like tonight. It’s every single night. The spirit he plays with, coming off the bench, playing with the starters, with the bench unit … the leadership, his growth as a player, as a person. … He means so much to us. He’s a Grizzly. That’s why we wanted him back. He’s got a huge impact on our culture, a huge impact on winning. So, that’s why Stones.”
“I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again and I will continue to say it,” Jones said after the game. “I view myself as a starter in this league. I feel like I am a starter in this league, I just come off the bench. I have no shame in that.”
Jones continued, “I love being in Memphis. I take pride in it. I take pride in my role as part of this ball club. When I’m called upon to start, I’m very confident and comfortable in that role, as well. I think Coach [Taylor Jenkins] and the rest of my teammates are comfortable and confident in that, too. Part of the reason why I’m here is that I can fill in when [Ja Morant] needs a night and try to continue to steady the ship.”
Santi Aldama tallied 18 points and 10 rebounds off of 66.7 percent from the field to secure his second double-double of the season.
Memphis’ own Kennedy Chandler had his breakout game of the season. Chandler stuffed the stat sheet with nine points, five assists, and three rebounds, plus two steals and a block.
Memphis limited the Heat to one of its lowest shooting percentages of the year, holding them to 39 percent from the field.
Finally, Memphis went 100 percent from the free throw line, thanks in part to Jones, who went 5-for-5. Let me repeat that again, Memphis went 100 percent from the free throw line!! The Grizzlies only shot nine free throws but any improvement is to celebrated, since free throw shooting has been a nagging issue.
Grizzlies color analyst Brevin Knight jokingly said he warned Grizzlies play-by-play announcer Pete Pranica not to mention anything about the free throws. Knight said later on social media, “You can never be surprised by this Memphis Grizzlies squad. Missing four rotation guys and playing the second night of a back-to=back against a rested veteran team and it didn’t matter. Everyone was huge and Tyus Jones was special.”
Next Man Up
The Grizzlies have made the next man up mentality an integral element of the team culture.
“Nothing changes,” Jenkins said about the bench stepping up in starters absence. “Day in and day out, how we approach our work, our individual development, our team development, the next-man-up mentality. We just say, ‘Go out and play Grizzlies basketball.’ We approach our practices the same way, our shootarounds, our offensive philosophies, defensive philosophies. We don’t change how we coach. We don’t change how we celebrate for each other. We navigate each day.”
Jenkins went on to say, “That was a special win last year at the end of the season (over the Phoenix Suns). But tonight is a great example of guys just staying ready. That’s what I told the guys in the locker room, especially guys I haven’t played a whole lot. That’s Grizzlies basketball. That’s Grizzlies prep. That’s the Grizzlies standard. That’s how we operate.”
Tidbits
Ziaire Williams is close to his season debut. He was upgraded from out to doubtful. Jenkins talked about his progress before the game. “We’re getting closer. I don’t have a definitive date. He did some five-on-five with the Hustle, and had a great play group there.”
“It’s very beneficial that our Hustle team is available with their schedule,” added Jenkins. “The opportunity to play five-on-five against other pro players has been great. He’s progressing really well and responding to everything well every day after the workloads we’re providing him.”
Jenkins concluded, “I think this is the second or third time he’s gotten in on five-on-five. We’ll just kind of recalibrate, see how tomorrow goes and dress Wednesday, and we have a game on Friday as well. So, potential in the next week or so.”
Up Next
The Grizzlies will host the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday night. Tip-off: 7pm CT.
Jaren Jackson with a massive block over Joel Embiid (Credit: Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)
After a disappointing loss in Minnesota against the Timberwolves on Wednesday, Memphis looked to bounce back at home against the 76ers. The Grizzlies had a lackluster performance in a Minnesota loss that saw them have 27 turnovers and continued woes at the free throw line.
On Friday night, back home at FedExForum, the Grizzlies got back to playing their brand of basketball and defeated the Philadelphia 76ers, 117-109.
Philadelphia hasn’t beaten the Grizzlies at FedExForum since 2012, and Memphis notched its ninth consecutive home win in the overall series against the 76ers.
Ja Morant led the way for Memphis with 28 points and eight rebounds as the Grizzlies improved to 13-9 on the season.
Morant spoke about the differences in the last two games. It was like night and day. He said, “Pretty much just playing with a pass. Not playing in traffic. It’s why I felt like we’re a great team. … learning from mistakes and correcting them. The last game was terrible for us, so coming back with no bouncing back and less turnovers helped us win the game.”
Steven Adams held his own against Sixers’ star Joel Embiid, with nine points, 16 rebounds and a team-high six assists to go with three steals and three blocks. Adams even had a one-man fastbreak and it was a delight for Morant to see.
After the game Morant had high praise for his teammate. “I feel like that’s what makes [Steven Adams] so great for us all around,” Morant said about Adams and his matchups. “Him taking on that challenge to guard the best bigs — being able to limit them and make their shots tough as possible. Also, on the other end, making them work, making them have to box out, and him being aggressive as of late has been helping us even more. He’s a big piece to our team, and we’re definitely thankful for him. I know he loves those matchups more than anything and taking on the challenge.”
Jaren Jackson, Jr. had a great game and capped it off with what some are calling the block of the year from “The Block Panther.” Embiid had a chance to cut into the Grizzlies lead late in the contest. He went up for a two-handed jam after getting past Adams, but Jackson denied him at the rim with 25.2 seconds remaining to seal the victory.
Jackson described the block after the game. “I’m going every time, or maybe not, you don’t know – I’m looking at where I think he is going to put the ball, based on how many drives he’s done over the course of the game,” he explained.
“Looking at [Steven Adams], because if Steve is in front, I’ll probably jump later, because he’ll probably do a second move on Steve, or don’t go at all because he’s covered,” Jackson added.
He went on to say, “I saw him get a step on Steve, so I knew he was going to gather and go up. So, I knew the timing. I knew he was going to go up with two hands and protect the ball. So, the only shot I got is right here at the rim, that’s my only chance. I can’t jump early or swipe early, it’s just not going to work for me. That’s what I was seeing. It helps when Steve-O was out there, he makes it really easy for us to come over and help.”
Jackson finished with 22 points, nine rebounds, and four blocks while going 7-of-12 from the field.
The 23-year-old big man has scored 20+ points five times in the last seven games, and also has five games with at least three blocks.
“Each game, he’s progressively getting better. Confidence from the three-point line, decision making is still taking a little bit of time,” said Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins. “How defenses are guarding him — he’s getting some different looks,” Jenkins continued. “His touch finish around the rim will come along with more reps and especially against physical NBA defenses.”
Jenkins concluded, “Defensively, he’s had some big rebound nights, blocked shot nights. His activity is huge for us defensively, and that blocked shot at the end — it was perfect execution. We talked about staying home on shooters, but if [Joel] Embiid got downhill or their driver got downhill late, we need someone to come over, and we know Jaren is going to be that guy. Big-time block, big-time play to seal the win.”
Tidbits
The Make-A-Wish recipient Aiden was signed to a one day contract with the Grizzlies and participated in pre-game activities. It will be a night he will never forget.
“It was pretty much just us as a team, as a group, making him feel a part of the team as much as possible, allowing him to be in the captain huddle,” Morant said after the game.
“I know it’s a dream come true. He got his pick, he got his ball, and our team huddle before we break to go to Coach. It’s something no kid has ever done before but us. He should be proud. That’s a one-on-one thing. I know it made him happy. I actually saw him dancing over there. We pushed him in and let him lead the group. He also did Jaren’s three jumps too. Just making a kid happy and changing their life and giving them something to remember forever is what we try to do.”
“He was at the right place at the right time,” Jackson chimed in. “I was just looking around, and he was perfectly involved. I was like, ‘Here we go, jump. Get ready to jump.’ That’s what it’s all about, making someone’s day. I bet he was hyped.”
Up Next
The Grizzlies will travel to the Motor City to take on Jaden Ivey and the Detroit Pistons on Sunday. Tip-off: 5 p.m. CT
Dillon Brooks over Jonas Valanciunas (Credit: Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)
For Ja Morant, it was his first head-to-head win over his former AAU teammate and fellow South Carolinian Zion Williamson, as the Grizzlies cruised past the Pelicans 132-111 at FedexForum Friday night.
The 23-year-old was excited about being on the floor with Williamson. “It’s exciting man, two guys from South Carolina — where most don’t make it out — and live out their dream, playing basketball at the highest level. We’re able to provide, not only for ourselves, but for our families.”
Morant went on to say, “It’s big time. I know we both enjoy it, and being out there on the court together is even better. He’s a special talent, obviously. We’re not used to playing against each other; it’s still good, always room for praying he has a very healthy career, being able to showcase his talent at the highest level, being 100 percent.”
Morant finished with his fourth double-double of the season by tallying 23 points and 11 assists.
Was it the most complete game of the season for Memphis? Grizzlies head Taylor Jenkins thought so. “It’s definitely up there – super proud of the group,” Jenkins said after the game. “The Pelicans are always a tough matchup for us.”
Yes, the Pelicans have been a tough matchup, particularly when Williamson is available. Memphis is now 1-5 against New Orleans when Williamson is on the floor.
Jenkins added, “I thought our first quarter defensive activity, the ball movement, the pace we were playing with … Ja set a tone, Dillon [Brooks] set a tone, Steven [Adams] set a tone. Those guys were great on both sides.”
“I thought our defensive activity was great,” Jenkins concluded. “We held them to 48 points in the first half, knowing that they were going to come out and make a run. We just exploded more in the third quarter. Definitely a really solid win by our group. A lot of guys contributed tonight on both ends.”
That would include Brooks, who had a spectacular night, particularly defending Williamson, who only scored 14 points in 30 minutes of play. Brooks harassed Williamson and had him out of sync most of the game.
“That plays more into my defense and physicality – trying to meet him before the rim,” said Brooks about guarding Williamson. “He finds ways to jump over you, get by you. And I just try to keep him to his right hand mostly … make him finish with his right hand. That’s the matchup.”
Brooks led all scorers with 25 points, going 8-of-15 from the field. He also had four assists.
After being listed as questionable due to a non-Covid illness, Adams was available, made his presence known early, and nabbed his sixth double-double of the season with 15 points and 11 rebounds.
Jaren Jackson, Jr. was in foul trouble early, but it didn’t stop him from having a productive game. He finished with 20 points on 6-of-7 shooting and three blocks.
Jenkins was pleased with Jackson’s play: “[It’s] more about JJ just doing what he’s great at. Being super active, drives, pick-and-rolls, post-up situations. Just unleashing him to protect our paint with that activity.”
“I thought he did a great job,” Jenkins continued. “Three blocks tonight, but [he] altered a lot with the emphasis of them trying to get to the paint. Whether it was with Zion [Williamson] or Jonas [Valanciunas] … I think he did a great job.”
Up Next
The Grizzlies head to Madison Square Garden to take on the Knicks, looking to take the season series 2-0. Tip-off: Sunday, November 27th at 5 p.m. CT.
Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson, Jr. (Photo credit: Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)
Jaren Jackson, Jr. was ready for his first home game of the season which was also ‘Block Panther’ sock giveaway night. He had missed the first 14 games of the season after being sidelined recovering from right foot surgery.
The Grizzlies gave away Block Panther socks to the first 5,000 fans on Friday night (photo cred: Sharon Brown)
The 23-year-old finished with 25 points, 12 rebounds, three blocks and two steals.
Jackson led Memphis to a win over the Thunder, 121-110. The victory ended a two-game losing streak for the Grizzlies, who improved to 6-1 on the season at FedExForum.
The Michigan State alum spoke about his improved rebounding numbers and paint play: “Just using my body better, knowing how to. It is really just watching Steven Adams and the things he does, like offensive rebounding on the free throw line and around the rim. How to use his body to his advantage, where and how he does things.”
Jackson concluded, “I’m not going to give the secrets out, credit to him and what I have been able to see up close. I’ve been able to ask questions all the time on how to be better.”
“It’s obviously been a point of emphasis that we’re talking to Jaren about,” Jenkins said about Jackson’s play in the interior. It’s finding those opportunities to get inside of the paint, be a threat on the offensive side, whether it’s by design or he just kind of feels it out on his own.”
Jenkins added, “Ja [Morant] was even seeking him out I think there in the first half to get him inside too. So, it’s definitely an element of our offense that we’ve been working on and talking about. Hopefully we utilize that a little bit more moving forward so that we have more threats on the inside.”
Ja Morant left the game late in the fourth quarter due to an ankle injury. Morant had to be helped to the locker room.
After the game Jenkins spoke about Morant’s injury: “He just tweaked his ankle there late in the fourth,” said Jenkins. “Really not much to report. They’re just going to get some more imaging and testing tonight and tomorrow. I’ll have more of an update tomorrow.”
The Grizzlies are obviously hoping the injury isn’t too serious, as the team is already without sharpshooter Desmond Bane (toe sprain) for at least two to three weeks.
Morant finished with a near triple-double with 19 points, 11 assists and seven rebounds.
In the best game of his career (with career highs in points and three-point makes), John Konchar chipped in 19 points and 10 rebounds while going 5-of-7 from beyond the arc.
After the game, Konchar commented on his three-pointers: “The Thunder likes to shift off the corner threes a lot. Ja got downhill and collapsed everybody, and yeah, I was open for a lot of them.”
Dillon Brooks scored 23 points on November 4, 2022 in a 130-99 win over the Charlotte Hornets. (Photo cred: Sharon Brown)
After a lengthy four-game road trip out west, it seemed like a lifetime had passed since the Memphis Grizzlies last played at the FedExForum.
Memphis went 2-2 on the road trip.
The Grizzlies put on a dominant display before 17,187 delighted fans as they defeated the Charlotte Hornets 130-99, Friday night, proving that there is no place like home.
Memphis maintained its perfect home record (3-0), marking its best start at home since going 5-0 in 2018–19.
On the night, eight Grizzlies reached double figures, including an efficient Dillon Brooks, who had his best game of the season.
“Staying the course, not overreacting,” said Brooks on his performance this season. Just playing through Ja [Morant] and playing through Des (Bane). Just finding my spots, and then just trying to work out every day. Just work on my shot. That’s really it.”
In true “Dillon the Villain” fashion, he said negative comments about his contributions to the team inspire him. Brooks has been criticized for his shot selection and offensive decision-making.
He said, “I just use it as motivation. They love you when you’re hot, and then when you’re not, they don’t love you. Even your own fans. So, you know, it’s me, it’s me and my family, me and my guys,” continued Brooks. “They believe in me, and they tell me every day to keep playing our game, keep working on your game, and I continuously do it. I play for me and my guys, so it doesn’t matter what other people have to say.”
Brooks finished the contest with 23 points, making 8 of 12 field goal attempts and nailing 6 of 7 three-point attempts, tying his previous career high. Brooks added four assists on the night.
“Definitely his best game of the season so far,” said head coach Taylor Jenkins after the game. “He’s been working so hard to get back into his rhythm, the effort he’s playing with. One of his best games in my time here, just the efficiency on offense.”
Jenkins added, “I talked to him before the game. I said, ‘The tone that you’re setting defensively the last couple of games has been phenomenal, especially in the last game in Portland. Keep playing with that tenacity, and then I just love the decision making you’ve been showing.’”
“He’s been putting a lot of work, balance on his shot, playmaking, getting downhill, finishing at the rim,” Jenkins continued
“You get two-way performances like that, that’s why he’s a heck of a player and an important player for us.”
Steven Adams grabbed a season-high 19 rebounds in the 130-99 win over the Hornets. (Photo cred: Sharon Brown)
Steven Adams finished the game with his third double-double of the year, a season-high 19 rebounds, including 11 offensive rebounds, 13 points, two steals, and two blocks in just 22 minutes of action.
Adams set a franchise record and a career high for rebounds before halftime with 16 rebounds in the first half (as opposed to 17 for Charlotte as a team).
After the game, Adams admitted he’s more comfortable with the team this season. “There’s just something … understanding the system more,” Adams said. “And especially with the guards, how they play the pick-and-roll and the late reads. There’s more of a comfort with that aspect of it. Last year, I was either helping too early or too late, and I think now I’m starting to get a better feel for when to go.”
“Knowing the guys a bit more and what they want to do,” Adams continued. “It’s also a new year. It’s kind of hard not to compare it to last year because you assume that the refs are the same and teams are emphasizing something on defense, but that’s not the case.”
Adams added, “They emphasize different things and especially against us, they’ll change the scout completely. And there’s a lot of that going on too, strategically. I have to be an option in terms of being available offensively or being aggressive to punish them when they try and make an adjustment to deal with [Desmond Bane] and Ja [Morant].”
Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies dunks the ball against the Orlando Magic during a preseason game on October 3, 2022 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. (Photo: Copyright 2022 NBAE • Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images)
The Memphis Grizzlies’ surprising run to the Western Conference’s second seed last season caught many NBA observers by surprise. Overnight, the squad went from being the NBA’s ugly duckling to must-see TV. Nonetheless, nobody will be caught off guard this year. The team has an opportunity to demonstrate that they are serious contenders in the West for the foreseeable future.
One can consider that the team won 56 games last year and has one of the best young cores in the league at under 25 years old. The Grizzlies are counting on improvements from their returning players and a group of newcomers. Other teams around the league made significant roster adjustments and have a litany of healthy players who are returning from injury.
Memphis had a season that set a new standard for excellence. By playing stifling defense, the Grizzlies made NBA history by being the first team to finish first in rebounding, steals, and blocks all in the same season. Fast break points, offensive rebounds, points in the paint, and second-chance points were also league-bests for this team.
Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies drives to the basket during a preseason game against the on October 3, 2022 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. (Photo: Copyright 2022 NBAE • David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images)
Because of his tremendous growth as a player, Ja Morant was selected as a starter for the All-Star Game and became the league’s most-improved player. Morant agreed to a five-year maximum rookie extension, the team announced on July 6th, worth upwards of $231 million. With Jaren Jackson Jr. leading the NBA in blocks and earning first-team All-NBA Defense honors, the team won the Southwest Division for the first time in franchise history.
Sharon Brown and Aimee Stiegemeyer, the Flyer’s special Grizzlies correspondents, analyze here the key questions facing the team as they prepare for the 2022-23 season.
There have been several changes to the roster since last season. Whose absence will have the most impact on the Grizzlies’ success?
Aimee Stiegemeyer: No disrespect to De’Anthony Melton, but Kyle Anderson’s absence is going to have the most noticeable impact. Anderson is one of the most underrated role players in the league and his talent often gets overlooked because his style of play is not the flashiest, and the best basketball that he has ever played was during the 2020-21 season when he filled the starting power forward position in Jaren Jackson Jr.’s absence. Memphis will need a Kyle Anderson this season.
Sharon Brown: It’s possible that Kyle Anderson’s worth can’t always be reduced to a number in the box score. However, the group greatly benefited from his leadership. The Grizzlies were in a jam in the first round of the playoffs last year, Game 5. It seemed like the Minnesota Timberwolves had their number, and Jaren Jackson Jr. was frustrated and in foul trouble, but the veteran leadership of Anderson and Steven Adams helped the young team stay composed.
At one point in the game, the Timberwolves were up and were poised to even the series 2-2, but the Grizzlies were able to recover and win the game, largely in part to the veteran presence on the bench that night.
Anderson was a veteran voice the team needed, in addition to being a great ball handler and above-average defender with length. In Anderson’s absence, Danny Green is ready and able to fill that void with his leadership pedigree.
The Grizzlies’ most recent season set a new standard for excellence. (Photo: Sharon Brown)
Among the returning players, who will have the most impact on the court, in terms of the Grizzlies’ success? Off the court?
AS: On the court? This is Ja Morant’s world, and we are all just living in it. As Morant goes, the team goes. He has really come into his own as the leader of this Grizzlies team, and during games you can find him encouraging and coaching his teammates from the floor.
Off the court, I envision Steven Adams taking on the role as the team’s dad. Big dad energy was on display with Adams last season when he physically picked up and carried Tony Bradley away from Ja Morant, thereby thwarting an altercation between them. We saw it again after the season opener when Adams swiped a towel from John Konchar to give to Morant.
And while he is not a returning player, Danny Green’s veteran leadership and guidance can be of immense value before he ever steps foot on the court. Green has seen the top of the mountain and he has been where the Grizzlies are trying to go — the NBA Finals. The experience and maturity that Green has gathered during his years in the league will be a welcome addition to this squad.
SB: On the floor, I would say a combination of Morant and Jackson Jr. Morant can alter the course of games offensively and Jackson Jr. is the anchor on the defensive side of the ball. Off the court, Danny Green. Green brings that championship experience as a three-time NBA champion. He has been on the big stage and knows what is required. On media day, Green was adamant that the team lacked maturity in a way. “A lot of guys like to do the social media — the TikTok, the tweets,” Green said.
“We can try to limit that a bit — focus on staying locked in to the game and treating the game the right way.
“We love to have fun, but the basketball gods will turn on you if you celebrate too early. Acting like you’ve been there and realizing you haven’t done anything yet — regardless of how many games you won in the regular season — if you haven’t won a championship, there’s nothing to really celebrate. My focus is on keeping them with that mentality for the whole season: Job’s not done,” Green added.
The team is about accountability and I believe Green’s presence will help with that.
And Morant is on board also. “I mean we’re young — he’s a vet,” Morant said when told on Grizzlies media day that Green thinks the team can benefit from maturity. “That’s his job … to hold us accountable. He’s going to be a big help for us in that area. It’s what we need.”
Thirteen-year NBA veteranDanny Green brings championship experience to the Grizzlies. (Photo: Aimee Stiegemeyer)
Last year the Grizzlies finished second in the Western Conference. Where do we expect them to rank this year?
AS: Fourth or fifth seed — not because the Grizzlies got worse over the summer but because other teams in the conference got better. The return of Zion Williamson for the Pelicans will be huge, and Minnesota made some offseason moves that will help propel them to a better ranking in the standards. Memphis’ loss of Kyle Anderson is Minnesota’s gain.
SB: I’m going to guess somewhere in the range of 2-7. It’s the Wild West, a place where anything can occur. The Los Angeles Clippers have Kawhi Leonard and Paul George back, the Minnesota Timberwolves have Rudy Gobert, Zion Williamson is healthy for the New Orleans Pelicans, and the Sacramento Kings and Oklahoma City Thunder might make huge strides this season.
Which player will take his game to the next level?
AS: All signs point to Santi Aldama taking a big leap forward this season. His performance in the season opener shows him already playing at a higher level than last season, particularly putting up a double-double in his first career start. Aldama made himself useful on both ends of the floor, adding offensive power with some clutch baskets and snatching defensive rebounds. The Grizzlies and Spanish big men are historically an iconic duo.
SB: For me, I’d say Desmond Bane. Even though Morant was voted as the league’s most-improved player, that honor should have gone to Bane. The Grizzlies’ young sensation shot 43 percent from outside and averaged over 18 points per game last year. Considering Bane more than doubled his scoring average and improved on nearly all counting stats averages last season, he is undoubtedly taking another leap. Bane might be on track for an All-Star appearance.
He was phenomenal and a major reason the Grizzlies made the playoff push last season. Bane averaged 18.8 points and hit 49 percent from deep in the postseason.
The Grizzlies will have 18 nationally televised games, a franchise record. (Photo: Sharon Brown)
With Jaren Jackson Jr. sidelined for an undetermined amount of time, who will step up to fill his role?
AS: There is no one player on this roster who can give you all the things that Jaren does, which means it will take a group effort from multiple players to provide the offensive and defensive value missing. Expect to see this coming from a combination of Santi Aldama, Steven Adams, Brandon Clarke, and Xavier Tillman Sr. This is where losing Kyle Anderson is going to hurt Memphis the most.
SB: The success of the Grizzlies can be attributed to their “next-man-up” mentality. There is no egotism in the locker room, which contributes to the culture. Every single one of them has the same goal in mind, and that’s to win basketball games. That manner of thinking and feeling is unimpeded by anything. Every single thing is geared toward achieving that one goal.
In my opinion, any player on that roster is capable of stepping into that role on any given night.
Predicted season win total?
AS: Fifty-three games. The competition among the Western Conference this season will be cutthroat and relentless. On a micro-level, there is the factor of Jaren Jackson Jr.’s indeterminate timeline for returning to the court.
SB: Barring serious injuries to key players, I have them winning between 50 and 56 games. Memphis has the right vibe and players who are eager to prove themselves. The squad is still as confident as ever and ready to take on any opponent. And then there’s that person at number 12 who can alter the course of games.
The Grizzlies have a franchise record of 18 nationally televised games, and for the first time they will be playing on Christmas Day. Will that adversely affect the team’s performance?
AS: Not even a little bit. This group has shown that they thrive under pressure and embrace the opportunity to prove any naysayers wrong. If anything, the increased national exposure will be a motivating factor for this Grizzlies team, especially given how intense the rivalry between Memphis and Golden State has become.
SB: The opposite is true; it will only encourage them to improve. The Grizzlies don’t have much to worry about other than getting out of their own way and focusing on the task at hand. Morant is a once-in-a-generation talent for Memphis, with the capacity to completely dominate games once he gets into his groove. Memphis has taken a giant step forward with the Christmas Day game. To top it all off, the squad still has more to prove.
Five rookies joined the Grizzlies’ roster this offseason. Who should we be keeping an eye out for?
AS: David Roddy and Jake LaRavia are the likeliest to see game-time minutes early in the season, but I am most looking forward to seeing Kenneth Lofton Jr. develop and how his game progresses. Junior, as he is known, will spend most of the time playing with the Hustle in Southaven, but he has the potential to put up big numbers. If the Grizzlies can get the version of Lofton we saw during Summer League, he can be a substantial weapon in their arsenal for years to come. His basketball IQ and smooth footwork are reminiscent of Grit-and-Grind-era Zach Randolph.
SB: There was no doubt that Kenneth Lofton Jr., better known by his nickname Junior, was a sight to behold in the Summer League and the few games in which he participated in the preseason. People should go to Southaven to watch him play for the Memphis Hustle. With a two-way deal, Lofton may only play in 50 regular season games for the Grizzlies and cannot participate in the postseason. Even in preseason, the crowd was screaming “bring in Kenny” for Junior, indicating that he had a devoted fan base. A #FreeJunior hashtag has also been created for use on social media. Zachary McKenley Randolph, also known as Z-Bo, is a Grizzlies icon who is often compared to Junior. Lofton is a bucket-getter, a traditional post player who makes the most of his size and strength.
Basketball was in the air Wednesday night, as the Memphis Grizzlies hosted the New York Knicks in the season home opener.
Big Memphis was back like it never left.
During player introductions, Memphis rapper NLE Choppa performed and led the Grizzlies onto the court. Choppa was sporting Kennedy Chandler’s No. 1 jersey.
To the delight of the 18,202 in attendance and millions more watching on ESPN, the Grizzlies edged out the Knicks 115-112, in a thrilling overtime victory.
Ja Morant’s typical WTF?-inducing highlight plays got the Grizzlies’ regular season started off on the right foot.
Morant led the Grizzlies with 34 points and nine assists, his third consecutive season-opening performance of at least 30 points. Against the San Antonio Spurs in 2020, Morant scored 44 points, and against the Cleveland Cavaliers last season, he scored 37 points.
“I love it – love the pressure,” the 22-year-old said about his leadership. “I want to be the one making the play to put us in position to win. So anytime the time comes, it’s time for me to take my game to another level. Honestly, to start this game I was already ready, because I’ve seen some stuff that have me pumped to go. So, shout out to the Knicks’ social media team.”
Second-year big man Santi Aldama scored 18 points, on 7 0f 14 from the field, and grabbed 11 rebounds in 39 minutes during his first career start. It was Aldama’s third career double-double. Aldama’s move to the starting lineup is due to the unavailability of the Grizzlies All-Defensive specialist Jaren Jackson, Jr. who is recovering from a foot injury.
Along with Jackson Jr., Memphis was without Dillon Brooks (thigh soreness), Ziaire Williams (knee soreness) and newcomer veteran Danny Green (left knee surgery recovery).
A going theme with Memphis is to be ready when your number is called and the Spaniard was prepared. “Like I always say, it’s [a lot of] work, but I was locked in,” Aldama said at the podium after the game. “I knew they were a good team, so I just tried to play good defense and on offense, just be ready to shoot. I think we did a good job just moving the ball like we always do, and getting stops down the stretch, especially. I was excited obviously — first start. It was a great feeling, but it was even better to get the win. That’s always how to finish games.”
Morant and company have confidence in Aldama while Jackson Jr. is out. “We preach to him to be aggressive at all times,” Morant said. “He is able to shoot the ball well and his size and length [helps him be] able to shoot over guys inside in the paint. So, we just preach, be aggressive, be ready to shoot at all times, and he played very well for us on both ends of the floor. Obviously taking a tough matchup tonight on [Julius] Randall and helping us come out with this win. Just gotta keep it going.”
Tidbits
Los Angeles Rams cornerback Jalen Ramsey was in the Grindhouse to watch his guy Morant.
Growl Towels: Ain't Ducking No Smoke from Game 5 - Warriors at Grizzlies (Credit: Sharon Brown)
Wednesday night’s 134-95 victory over the Golden State Warriors demonstrated the Grizzlies’ “next-man up” mentality in face of elimination.
Ja Morant is doubtful throughout the remainder of the playoffs with a right knee bone bruise.
“I mean, this is definitely impressive, but to use our player’s phrase, we deep,” said Taylor Jenkins on winning without Morant. “I mean, we’re deep. It’s as simple as that. I think we say that, not arrogantly. We say that confidently because anybody that steps out on the floor can make an impact for us.”
Jenkins added, “A lot of different guys stepped up. It’s really impressive, no matter who’s out. Ja’s out, anyone else goes out, our guys rally and compete, and tonight was a big win for us.”
“Next man up mentality,” said Grizzlies guard Dillon Brooks about playing without Morant. “We know how to respond. … We know how to play with each other better than any team in the NBA. We continuously find ways to keep up in our play. So, it’s just a fun style to play and it starts with the defensive end. Everyone bought in on the defensive end. Guarding, trying to get deflections, rebounding, and it builds into our offense.”
“It almost seems like whenever somebody thinks we can’t do something,” said Desmond Bane after the massive win, “we end up doing it. I never want to put a limit on what we can do, because anything’s possible.”
Tonight the Grizzlies will face the Warriors in San Francisco for Game 6 and will be a must-win to avoid elimination. Here are some things Memphis should do to force Game 7 in Memphis:
Go big again
With Steven Adams back in the starting lineup, the Grizzlies dominated the offensive glass and outrebounded the Warriors for the first time during the series. Rebounding helped the team finish the regular season with the second-best record in the league.
Memphis’ +18 rebounding advantage (55-37) in Game 5 swung the game in their favor. As a result, they had a 24-5 advantage in second-chance points.
Prior to the last game, the Warriors have been winning the rebounding battle. Adams is a key factor for the Grizzlies both offensively and defensively.
“Steve-O [Steven Adams] will find a way to feed them in the paint,” said Brooks. “Same with Jaren, and once we get able to establish the paint, it’s easy for us to make threes. We relentlessly crash the boards. Relentlessly played off the catch and drag their close-outs.”
“Then, ultimately, it opens up the three, so we have a complete game tonight,” continued Brooks. “It lets me know we’ve got to bring that on the road and keep that same effort and energy on the defensive.”
Make JJJ the focal point on offense
In Game 5, Jenkins made it a point to go to Jaren Jackson Jr. early and often. He finished with 21 points, eight rebounds, four assists, and two blocks. JJJ converted on 4 of 6 from beyond the arc.
He’s been hearing a lot lately about how he needs to be more aggressive.
After the blowout win against the Warriors, Jackson told reporters, “Be aggressive. Take what they give me. Depending on who’s guarding me, probably depends on what I’m going to do. I mean, they want me to be aggressive, so I’m just doing me.”
Tyus Jones said, “It makes my job easy. I tell Jaren every night, dominate. That should be his mindset.”
Jenkins said after Wednesday’s game, “I want to get him going early in the game because I knew he was going to be a big factor early in the game, late in the game. He’s going to be a big factor for the rest of the series.”
“He’s the key,” Brooks told reporters after Game 5. “They got no one to guard him. No one to stop him. He needs to keep demanding the ball. The Warriors are going to have to adjust and double team him soon, and he’s going to have to learn how to pass the ball out to get his teammates shots, and that’s what he needs to do.”
Brooks added, “I try to tell him to stay aggressive, and you’re a walking mismatch out there for every single player that guards you. So just keep attacking.”
Jackson also needs to stay out of foul trouble.
Everybody eats
Jones and Bane must replicate their performances from Wednesday.
Jones ended the game with 21 points, nine assists, two steals, and zero turnovers plus he shot 4 of 7 from the three point line. Game 6 has to be the best game of his career as a scorer, passer and playmaker. He has run a consistent offense to avoid getting stagnant like it did late in Game 4.
“We’re hungry — we’re fighting,” Jones said. “We’re fighting because our season is on the line at this point. And so, you know, we’re just fighting. We’re going to need these guys every single night from here on out. Simple as that. They stepped up. They showed up for us. We’re going to need that again Friday.”
Bane finished with 21 points like both Jackson and Jones. He connected with 4 of 6 three point shots. The Grizzlies need him to shoot lights out like he did in the first round series against the Timberwolves.
The bench squad has to show up and show out. Last game Memphis bench outscored the Warriors reserves 52-35. Brandon Clarke and company must produce in order to extend the series.
Will these young Grizzlies continue to do the impossible? Will they upset the Warriors and advance to the Western Conference Finals?
Ja Morant, Teniya Morant, and mother Jamie
(Photo courtesy Jamie Morant)
Some say a mother’s love for her children is unparalleled in this world; responsibility and sacrifice are inherent in the role of a mother.
The family typically turns to her for love and support because she is their rock, the glue that keeps everything together. Meet the mother of the Grizzlies superstar guard Ja Morant.
For Jamie Morant, her family is her everything.
Jamie and her granddaughter Kaari (Photo courtesy Jamie Morant)
“Denzel Washington once said, ‘A mother is a son’s first true love. A son, especially their first son, is a mother’s last true love,’” Jamie says with tears. “Ja is definitely that for me. He changed my life in many ways, while not even knowing it.”
Jamie was also quite the athlete. She was a point guard in basketball and a utility player in softball during her college career. She believes Ja’s athleticism comes from her as he followed in her footsteps as a point guard.
“Most people think he gets his athletic skills from his dad, but everything besides the dunking is all me,” Jamie says with a laugh. “Being a point guard and playing certain positions I played in softball — you have to be the team leader, love what you’re doing, and be mentally tough because everything will fall on you.”
Jamie doesn’t have the visibility as her husband Tee Morant but she’s at Grizzlies home games supporting her son. “I may not be in the spotlight like Tee, but best believe do something to my kids and you will meet mama,” she says sternly. “I do not play about my kids!”
“As a mother, I instilled the basic principles of being a great person to my kids,” Jamie says. “Be polite, respectful, don’t see color, focus on your education, set goals and focus on them, work hard for what you want,” she says. “Give to others.”
She continues, “But as a parent all we can do is hope that they carry that info along with them throughout their life’s journey.”
Ja Morant and his mother Jamie
(Photo courtesy Jamie Morant)
Jamie became pregnant with Ja while she was in college and gave birth to him months after she graduated from then Claflin College, now Claflin University with a BS in Biology.
Jamie Morant and her father on graduation day (Photo courtesy of Jamie Morant)
She recently spoke to the Flyer in a wide-ranging interview about her son Ja and her family.
Memphis Flyer: What was Ja like growing up?
Jamie Morant: Ja was your typical boy growing up. He loved basketball, of course, but he also wanted to play football and baseball. Which makes sense because he comes from an athletic family on both sides. He also loved to dance and would entertain anyone with his signature Michael Jackson and Usher moves.
The adage goes: If you love Memphis, it will love you back. Why do you think Memphis and Ja fit so perfectly?
I will say this: “If you love Ja, he will love you back.” My son is truly a genuinely loving person, and Memphis reminds us a lot of home, so it was a great fit for all of us. We love the people and how they welcomed us and continue to embrace us.
Early on, when did you realize he had such a high basketball IQ?
It was as soon as he could hold and dribble a ball. He always was different on the court and had no fear of anyone or their size.
Your daughter Teniya plays basketball. How does she compare to Ja and how do they differ?
Their mentality and love for the game are the same, but, as a parent, I make it a point to not compare my kids. They are two different individuals and that’s how I see and encourage them. God created no two people alike and I want them to always strive to be the best versions of themselves and not feel inferior to anyone.
Your family is a close-knit group. How are you all making it easy for Ja as he is on his NBA journey?
From day one, we said the only thing Ja needs to worry about is his job, nothing else. Make sure he has as little stress as possible. So when we are home, there’s a lot of laughter. Ja is very silly and loves to laugh and be around family. I think most people would be surprised. We cook a lot and usually there’s a steady flow of family and friends new and old in our house. Definitely a lot of fun and love.
Ja says you instilled in him, he’s “beneath no one.” Where did that come from?
The “Beneath No One” came about when Ja was in high school and not getting any college offers but was going up against some of the “top” players in the state, scoring like 30-plus points and winning. attending elite camps, etc., and still nothing. It started to discourage him, so one day I said, “Son, at the end of the day the pressure is on these other players and not you. Play your game, you know what you can do, and guess what, you’re beneath no one!”
Whether it’s Memphis; Dalzell, South Carolina; or Murray, Kentucky, Ja is always giving back. Why is that important to you and your family?
Giving back is very important and Ja has always seen us give back. Our home in South Carolina was always open to many and we treated them all as our own. They would play basketball and then we would put food on the grill. It’s all a part of mentoring our youth and giving them a safe place to be and not in the streets. I honestly believe that’s how our family is in this position now. Bless others, and be blessed!
How is it watching Kaari, (Ja’s daughter) grow up?
She is such a joy and she reminds us so much of Ja at that age. She is quite the entertainer as many have seen at the games and is just so lovable. Kaari totally has all of our hearts but especially, Jama’s.
Ja once said that you are his best friend and that you taught him to celebrate women every day, that he carries with him in his treatment of his sister, his daughter, and other women. Why was it important to you to teach that to him?
Treating everyone with respect is important, but as a man you should treat women with the utmost respect. I mean, you came from a woman, right? We see enough of the opposite in the world and I wanted more for my son. He truly has a heart of gold and is very protective of the women in his life. He is a truly protective big brother and I know Niya wishes he and his dad would relax a little. [laughs]
Men’s sports has the most notoriety and strides have been made to give women’s sports more visibility, but it is not enough. Do you believe that will soon change in the age of social media? Why is it important for you and your family to support women in sports?
Yes, I believe that social media is good for the visibility of women’s sports. As a woman that has a daughter and now granddaughter, I want them to have better opportunities as a woman. We have been underrated, underpaid, and overlooked way too long. We will always support women in sports and fight for them to get paid what they deserve!
I ask every woman this, what do you do for self care?
It took me a long time to understand that self care is very important, because I’m so used to making sure my kids and everything in the household is straight. These past few years I’ve learned to focus on myself to maintain my peace and mentality. So I read books on self care and affirmations, journal, pamper myself, and relax on my back porch watching the waterfall and just enjoy nature.
Jamie Morant and her daughter Teniya at a Grizzlies game (photo courtesy Jamie Morant)
After battling it out against the Timberwolves in the first round, the Memphis Grizzlies have advanced to the Western Conference Semifinals for the first time since 2015. And, as in 2015, the Grizzlies will be facing off against the Golden State Warriors.
But much has changed about this Grizzlies team since then — most notably a changing of the guard in Memphis. The Core Four era gave way to the next generation of Grizzlies basketball, which is currently in the capable hands of Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr., and head coach Taylor Jenkins.
Due to the league’s shoddy scheduling, which allowed only one day between the conclusion of the Grizzlies-Timberwolves series, this preview comes after the first game of the second round has already been decided.
Memphis lost Game 1 to the Warriors by one point (117-116) after leading for most of the game. While Golden State is undoubtedly a better team than Minnesota, the Timberwolves matchup was in some ways tougher for this Grizzlies team than the Warriors. This series will give us a head-to-head matchup of the two most exciting point guards in the league — Ja Morant and Stephen Curry — as well as matchups between Dillon Brooks and Klay Thompson, and Jaren Jackson Jr. and Andrew Wiggins.
Since their 2015 playoff series, the Grizzlies are 10-15 against the Warriors. However, since drafting Ja Morant in 2019, the Grizzlies’ record against Golden State is 6-4.
The Flyer’s special Grizzlies correspondents Sharon Brown and Aimee Stiegemeyer explain what the keys to success are for round two and give their predictions on the series.
What will the Grizzlies need to do to win this series and advance to the Western Conference Finals?
Sharon Brown: Memphis just needs to play Grizzlies basketball, which is sticking to the strengths that got them there. The Grizzlies have no choice but to be extremely strategic and deliberate in their approach to defeating the Warriors. Because the Warriors are filled with veterans that will make them pay for costly mistakes as we saw in Game 1 of this second-round series.
In addition to Morant and JJJ’s incredible performances, they’ll need more help off the bench to get the job done. If available, Desmond Bane and Dillon Brooks, who scored a combined 17 points in Game 1, should step up their offensive production. If they both can’t contribute offensively, this series will be over in a hurry. While Memphis’ bench was statistically superior to Golden State’s in the regular season, Jordan Poole will be a constant issue if he comes off the bench or starts. To win this series, Memphis will need a stronger showing from players other than Morant or JJJ.
Getting back to rebounding, causing turnovers, and wreaking havoc is the key to this series.
Aimee Stiegemeyer: Basing this off their performance in Game 1 there are a few things the Grizzlies will need to do if they want to advance:
Better ball handling: The ability to create more possessions for themselves over the past couple of seasons is directly correlated with the Grizzlies’ rise in the standings. Part of how that was achieved was through forcing turnovers while also committing fewer of them. Memphis committed 16 turnovers in Game 1, and Golden State scored 24 points off those turnovers. Careless turnovers disrupt the flow of play and allow more scoring opportunities for the Warriors.
Making free throws: At the risk of sounding like a broken record, missed free throws have really hurt this team, both in the regular season and so far during this playoff run. Especially when the margin of victory is as close as it was the first game in this series. In a game you lost by one point, going 18-24 from the charity stripe is unfathomable. YGTMYFT.
Everyone needs to show up for this series: During the series against Minnesota, the Timberwolves rendered Steven Adams powerless and De’Anthony Melton was all but nonexistent. Once Adams is out of health and safety protocols, the Grizzlies need him back in the starting lineup. They will also need Jaren Jackson Jr. and Dillon Brooks to stay out of foul trouble. Brandon Clarke and Tyus Jones were crucial in round one, and that same energy will be needed in this series.
Predictions for the series outcome?
SB: I say Grizzlies in 7 because I believe they can win on the road in San Francisco.
AS: I’m also going to say Grizzlies in 7. This is a winnable series for Memphis if they play like they did during the regular season.
