Zach Edey: The Grizzlies' 7-Foot-4 Giant Aiming to Go Beyond the Paint
The Memphis Grizzlies are setting their sights on transforming Zach Edey, their towering rookie prospect, from a traditional center into a dynamic perimeter player. Standing at an imposing 7-foot-4 and weighing 300 pounds, Edey is a physical force whose presence usually commands the paint. Yet, under the guidance of Coach Taylor Jenkins, both the player and team are exploring a new frontier in Edey's game—his shooting ability.
Edey's basketball journey in college saw him dominate the paint with his physicality, a skill set that naturally developed given his size and build. "I'm a 7-foot-4, 300-pound guy. I'm built to be in the paint, to carve out space, to protect my area, and that's what I'm going to keep doing," Edey asserts. Despite his undeniable prowess in these traditional big man roles, there's a budding narrative of evolution that includes expanding his game beyond the interior.
The Evolution of a Center
His transition is reminiscent of players like Jonas Valančiūnas and Brook Lopez, both of whom adapted their games over the years. "Yeah, like, Lopez has to space the floor because they've got Giannis [Antetokounmpo]. On this team, I'm the Giannis, and people space around me," Edey quipped. This bold analogy highlights the confidence the young player has in carrying a similar impact for the Grizzlies.
The challenge is not as simple as moving away from the basket. It involves embracing a whole new set of skills and strategies, something Coach Taylor Jenkins is deeply invested in. "He's been pouring in the work. Pre-practice, post-practice, he's coming in at night shooting," said Jenkins, underscoring the dedicated efforts both he and Edey are making towards this transformation. Edey’s desire to improve is marked by his relentless work ethic, a necessity when pioneering new aspects of one's game.
Belief Beyond the Paint
Edey's confidence extends beyond sheer physicality. Despite attempting only two 3-pointers in his entire college career—one of which banked in—he believes in his shooting potential. "I've always said I can shoot. Like, you see it from the free throw line. Obviously, I haven't gotten those in-game reps up and it's going to be a process, but I've always believed I can shoot." This self-belief could be a crucial catalyst as he navigates his development journey.
Coach Jenkins further elaborated on allowing Edey the freedom to evolve at his pace. "I think I just want the game and the decision-making to come to him... I want him to feel like he has the green light," Jenkins said, expressing a philosophy that encourages creativity and self-assurance on the court.
Promising Beginnings and Future Challenges
The Grizzlies' first preseason game against the Dallas Mavericks will offer a preliminary glance at Edey's progress. His recent participation in a shooting contest alongside teammate Luke Kennard provides a glimpse into his current status. Although the duo was bested by Desmond Bane and Jake LaRavia, the experience adds to the stepping stones that define Edey's evolving skill set.
This season, Edey doesn't just bear the weight of his massive frame; he carries the aspirations of bridging the traditional and modern roles of a center. The Grizzlies and Edey's fans will watch closely as he embarks on this transformative journey, one that could reshape perceptions of what seven-footers are capable of achieving on the basketball court.
Whatever the outcome, Zach Edey's determination to blend his formidable presence in the paint with a newfound finesse from the perimeter heralds an exciting chapter for Memphis basketball. If Edey can successfully adapt, he may not only become a pivotal player for the Grizzlies but also a harbinger of a new era for big men in the NBA.