In Stunning Development Memphis Grizzlies Fired Their Head Coach
There are only nine games left in their regular season. So why would a team create upheaval by taking such a drastic action? No one can say for sure the answer to that question. Nevertheless, the move created a shockwave around the NBA league. Because, in a stunning development, the Memphis Grizzlies fired their head coach, Taylor Jenkins. They made the announcement this morning. And it’s even more surprising because Jenkins is the winningest coach in the history of the franchise.
Right now the Grizzlies are sitting in good playoff position as they are tied with the Lakers for the 4/5 seeds in the West. But they do have some crucial games ahead of them including playing the Lakers on Saturday. Currently they have a record of 44-29 but they have been 8-11 since the All-Star break. Their offense is ranked 16th and their defense ranked 20th during that timeframe. The falloff has led to some frustration with the direction the team has been headed.
Along with declining production has been the issue of player injuries. Injuries to key players like Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. contributed to the recent slide. Others speculated that the players weren’t buying into Jenkins and his system. An even wilder theory is that fans on social media have started to blame Ja Morant for getting Jenkins fired. However, former NBA super star player Isaiah Thomas simply said, “Something had to happen for them to make that move….”
A brief statement was issued by team:
“I’m genuinely appreciative of Taylor’s contributions to this team and this city over the past six seasons,” said Grizzlies President and GM of Basketball Operations Zach Kleiman. “This was a difficult decision, given the consistent and tangible development of our players and overall success under Taylor’s leadership. I wish Taylor the very best going forward.”
In Stunning Development Memphis Grizzlies Fired Their Head Coach
Jenkins was with the team for six seasons beginning with the 2019-2020 season. During that time he garnered a 250-214 (.539) record and he led Memphis to the postseason three times. Although they struggled in the postseason (9-14). He’s the longest-tenured head coach without a title. Jenkins will likely be a top head coach candidate but not until the season has ended.
In the meantime, ESPN Senior NBA Insider Shams Charania provided an update on x.com regarding Jenkins replacement:
“The Memphis Grizzlies are naming assistant Tuomas Iisalo as the interim head coach, sources tell ESPN. Iisalo, a native of Finland, is a former Finnish professional player and coach. He was head coach of Paris Basketball in 2024, winning the EuroCup and EuruCup coach of the year.”
Only time will tell if the firing of Jenkins will provide a better outcome for the Grizzlies in the playoffs.
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