The Most Beautiful Land In The World
What does it mean to be America’s team? It’s not just consistently being on national television and seen by the nation, but it is a team that embodies the American spirit. Toughness, swagger, grit, there are many adjectives that I can use to describe the everyday man and woman in America. Currently in the NBA, no other team fits such a description than the Memphis Grizzlies.
The Grizzlies aren’t on every national game, so I understand if you don’t know the roster 12 or so players deep. That is why I’m here. Allow me to walk you through the current Grizzlies roster and catch you up to speed. The fandom door hasn’t closed yet, but hop on while you still can.
Ja Morant (aka Big 12)
Let’s start with someone you do know. Ja is an electric point guard with insane handles who will beat you off the dribble. His playmaking skill is already at a 99 and has elevated the play of every single player on this roster. His three-point shooting could use a little work and he scares everyone when he hits the floor. But you will not find a better, more unselfish leader anywhere.
Jaren Jackson Jr. (aka Trip, The Block Panther)
Jaren is a 7’0 tall unicorn. He can shoot the three, he can beat you off the dribble and drive, and he can punish you from the post. Jaren might not get called a lot on offense, but it’s his defense that makes his new $100 million contract worth every penny so far. He finished the season as the league leader in blocks, blocks plus steals, and blocks per game. Jaren is the defensive anchor of this team and is vital to their success.
Desmond Bane (aka BANE!! (like from Batman))
Bane is a stone-cold killer from deep. This season he has doubled his points per game (9 to 18) and shot a very efficient 46% from three while increasing his shot totals across the board. He is the sniper that the Grit N’ Grind era Memphis Grizzlies desperately needed. I’ll take Bane over any other spot-up shooter in the league.
Dillon Brooks (aka Dillon the Villain)
Dillon is the person who you love if he’s on your team and hate if he isn’t. I’ll admit, I was harsh on Dillon in the past. But I have come to the conclusion that I do not want him anywhere else and have since apologized. His tenacity on defense helps energize this team in the biggest moments. Dillon isn’t afraid of anyone and refuses to back down. He has grown as a player and won’t really shoot you out of games like in times past, but rather has turned into an excellent playmaker.
Steven Adams (aka Aquaman, Grizzley Adams)
When the Memphis Grizzlies decided to trade Jonas Valanciunas, a lot of fans were skeptical. Jonas was a key part of our offense. But this trade proves why fans should trust this front office. Adams has been a key part in helping the Grizz lead the league in rebounding. Because of his rebounding and passing abilities, the Grizzlies have been able to get out on the break quickly and have an anchor in the half-court to run the offense through. Yes, he’s been pretty much played out of the playoff series with the Minnesota Timberwolves, but he has been vital in getting to this point.
Ziaire Williams (aka ????)
Williams was selected with the 10th overall pick in this previous NBA Draft. I don’t think there is any Grizzlies fan that thought that come playoff time we would be playing valuable minutes against starters. But his promise of a 3 and D guy is there for all of us to see. There’s a lot of room for growth, but watching this kid play is special.
Tyus Jones (aka Tyus STONES)
Jones is arguably the best backup point guard in the NBA. Once again Jones leads the league in assist/turnover ratio. He isn’t a high-level scorer, but he controls the offense with dangerous precision. Fans can easily trust Jones to get the job done when Ja is on the bench.
Kyle Anderson (aka Slo Mo)
Defense, offense, ballhandling, Anderson is as well-rounded of a wing as they come. His offensive effectiveness has taken a bit of a hit in the latter part of his tenure, but his importance remains the same. Moving Anderson to the starting lineup to help guard KAT was a 200 IQ move by head coach Taylor Jenkins.
Xavier Tillman (aka X, Professor X)
Tillman might not get the minutes, but he is more valuable than you might think. His performance in game 2 against the Wolves energized the squad to even the series. Whenever he plays, he makes the most of it.
Brandon Clarke (aka BC)
Clarke had a rough stretch last season and a lot of fans wanted him gone. I still believed in him and that belief has paid off this season. He’s been huge in the playoffs so far too as one of the first players off the bench. If you see BC flying through the air to catch a lob, my only advice is to watch your head.
De’Anthony Melton (aka Mr. Do Something)
Melton is the swiss army knife of the Memphis Grizzlies. He can literally do everything and does it at the most opportune time. Melton has hit a bit of a slump, but his previous body of work proves that he deserves to keep fighting through.
John Konchar (aka Jitty)
Mr. Jitty for tha City himself. High energy guy who we all love to root for. From moping floors of a college gym to moping the floor with LeBron James’ tears, he’s a fun rotation guy to support.
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