The Memphis Grizzlies enter the 2025–26 season poised for a return to title contention, blending elite athleticism, rising young talent, and a revamped coaching philosophy.
🏀 Coaching & Culture
In May 2025, the Grizzlies made a historic hire by appointing Tuomas Iisalo as their full-time head coach — the first Finnish-born head coach in NBA history . Iisalo, who previously led the team as interim and proved his offensive acumen in Europe, now assumes the challenge of fine-tuning Memphis’ signature fast-paced style. His promotion signals a strategic shift toward disciplined execution and sharper half-court offense.
⭐ Core Players
Ja Morant remains the heartbeat of the team. When healthy, Morant transforms Memphis into one of the NBA’s most explosive backcourts .
Jaren Jackson Jr. anchors the defense, emerging as an All-NBA defender with a rare combination of shot-blocking and perimeter shooting flair .
Desmond Bane, an elite shooter, has become a vital offensive counterweight alongside Morant, with potential to enter the rare 50‑40‑90 shooting club .
🆕 Young Frontcourt Talent
Zach Edey, the 7′4″ rookie taken ninth overall, brings rebounding and interior size previously missing since Steven Adams . He’s expected to fit seamlessly into the pick‑and‑roll with Morant .
GG Jackson II, a versatile wing, adds athleticism and scoring off the bench — key for floor spacing .
Jaylen Wells impressed in bursts before his season-ending wrist injury, averaging over 12 PPG and earning Rookie of the Month .
💪 Supporting Cast & Depth
Veterans like Marcus Smart, Luke Kennard, and Brandon Clarke provide grit, shooting, and defensive toughness—elements needed for playoff toughness .
🔍 Strengths & Challenges
Strengths: Memphis leads the league in transition offense, is top‑five in assists, and plays elite defensive rebounding .
Challenges: Injuries remain a worry; last season they used a record‑setting 33 players and missed 592 games . Performance consistency and spacing in half‑court sets will fall under Iisalo’s microscope.
🏆 Expectations
Projected for 47–51 wins, the Grizzlies are predicted to at least secure a play-in or low playoff seed. But with a healthy Morant, a breakout from Edey, and strategic maturation under Iisalo, they have the pieces to challenge deeper into the postseason.
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In summary, Memphis stands on the cusp of meaningful progress. With a strong core, dynamic youth