Zach Edey, the back-to-back reigning college basketball player of the year, was selected with the ninth overall pick in the NBA Draft by the Memphis Grizzlies. In his two seasons with the Boilermakers, Edey averaged 23.8 points and 12.5 rebounds, leading Purdue to the final of March Madness this year where they were ultimately defeated by UConn. Edey’s standout performance in the tournament solidified his legacy in college basketball, averaging 29.5 points and 14.5 rebounds in six games, including a 40-16 line in the Elite 8 and a 37-point effort in the championship game.
Many experts believed Edey would fall out of the lottery, but the Grizzlies saw the opportunity to add a dominant big man to pair with star player Jared Jackson Jr. Despite a tough season for Memphis that saw Ja Morant serving a 25-game suspension and suffering a season-ending injury himself, the team is looking forward to a promising future with a healthy Morant, an improved Desmond Bane, another season from Jackson, and the addition of Edey. With these key players in place, the Grizzlies are hopeful for another playoff run after finishing with a disappointing 27-55 record last season.
The Grizzlies’ decision to draft Edey adds depth to their frontcourt and provides a strong inside presence to complement their existing roster of talented players. Despite the challenges faced by the team in the previous season, they are optimistic about their chances in the upcoming year with a healthy lineup. The potential pairing of Edey with Jared Jackson Jr. creates an imposing frontcourt that could pose a challenge for other teams in the league. Memphis is eager to see how Edey’s skills translate to the NBA and contribute to their success on the court.
Edey’s performance in the NCAA tournament showcased his ability to dominate games and lead his team to success on the biggest stage. His scoring and rebounding numbers were impressive throughout the tournament, culminating in a strong showing in the championship game despite the loss. Edey’s emergence as a top college player has garnered attention from NBA teams looking to add a versatile big man to their roster. The Grizzlies saw potential in Edey’s skill set and believe he can make a significant impact in their lineup alongside established stars like Morant and Jackson.
Despite the setbacks faced by the Grizzlies last season, the team remains determined to bounce back and compete at a high level in the upcoming year. With key players returning from injury, including Ja Morant, and the addition of Zach Edey through the draft, Memphis is poised to make a strong push for the playoffs. The team’s depth and talent across the roster provide them with the tools needed to succeed in a competitive Western Conference. Fans are eager to see how Edey contributes to the Grizzlies’ success and watch the team’s progress as they strive for a successful season.
