The Memphis Grizzlies held an open practice for their fans on Sunday, October 6, at FedExForum, and the turnout was impressive. The lower bowl of the arena was nearly full with enthusiastic supporters eager to see their team in action. However, instead of a traditional practice, the Grizzlies entertained the crowd with competitions similar to those seen during NBA All-Star Weekend.
Skills and Shooting Competitions
The event kicked off with a skills competition, where players had to navigate a dribbling course, pass through a target, make a layup, and finish with a three-pointer. Rookie Jaylen Wells impressed the crowd by winning the contest.
Next, the team held a 3-point shootout featuring teams of Desmond Bane and Jake LaRavia versus Luke Kennard and Zach Edey. In a race to 60 made three-pointers, Bane and LaRavia emerged victorious.
But it was Edey’s perimeter shooting that went viral online. The rookie giant started slow, but hit a nice rhythm later in the competition, giving fans hope that he can be a threat from downtown:
There was also a half-court shooting challenge where players attempted to sink a seated three-pointer from midcourt. Despite some close calls, no one managed to make the shot within the allotted 60 seconds.
Yuki Kawamura’s Energy Steals the Show
The crowd favorite was undoubtedly rookie guard Yuki Kawamura, whose infectious energy lit up the arena. Kawamura, a 5-foot-8 guard from Japan with a significant social media following, participated in the rookie dance challenge with Ja Morant. Together, they performed the Gritty, much to the delight of the fans. While Kawamura is likely to begin the season with the Memphis Hustle, his performance at the open practice left a lasting impression.
Injury Updates
Injuries were a major storyline for the Grizzlies last season, and they continue to have a minor impact as the team heads into preseason. Both Vince Williams and GG Jackson will miss the entire preseason as they recover from summer injuries. Meanwhile, Jaren Jackson Jr. and Cam Spencer are expected to miss the first exhibition game but could return for the second. All eyes will be on Zach Edey, whose summer league performance was promising, as he plays with the main roster in preseason matchups.
Key Player Outlook
Ja Morant remains the key to the Grizzlies’ success. After playing just nine games last season, Morant’s return to form will be crucial in elevating the team’s play. Morant’s ability to lead and energize the team on the court could set the tone for a bounce-back season.
The Grizzlies also continue their tradition of developing young talent. Rookies Edey, Cam Spencer, and Jaylen Wells will all have opportunities to make an impact this season.
New Offensive Approach
Head coach Taylor Jenkins has installed a new offensive system for the upcoming season. On the new philosophy, Jenkins said, “We are now going to go crazy with the minutes—maybe high teens or low twenties. We just install our philosophy and not call plays as much. It is about how we want to play.”
Upcoming Games The Grizzlies’ first home preseason game will be on Thursday, October 10, against the Charlotte Hornets at 7 p.m. Memphis will kick off their regular-season home schedule on Saturday, October 26, against the Orlando Magic.