Even after a disappointing run this season, the Memphis Grizzlies turned back the clock to make their fans happy by retiring Marc Gasol’s jersey. The All-Star big man and former NBA champion, in turn, had a heartfelt message to the franchise and those who support it.
Just recently, the Grizzlies held a ceremony to retire Gasol’s number 33 jersey to honor the Spanish star. He has become the second player in Memphis history to have a jersey retired after Zach Rudolph’s number 50 was hung in the rafters on December of 2021.
Attending the ceremony were several guys who played during Gasol’s prime in Memphis, including Randolph, Mike Conley, and Tony Allen. These four were considered the Grizzlies’ Grit and Grind core during their time together, which resulted in seven straight appearances in the playoffs that ended in 2017.
Of the four, and even all the other guys who played for the franchise, Gasol is considered the most decorated star. Among the accolades bestowed on his name are three All-Star Game appearances and a Defensive Player of the Year award during his time playing for the Grizzlies from 2008-19.
During his run with the team, Gasol rose to break several franchise records. These include becoming the all-time leader in minutes played, field goals, free throws, rebounds, games started, and blocks. The former Toronto Raptors and Los Angeles Lakers star also ranked second in points, assists, and games played.
Marc Gasol Reacts To His Jersey Being Retired By Memphis Grizzlies
During the ceremony, Gasol was asked to speak before the crowd. Shown below is his reaction to having the jersey he wore retired by the Grizzlies in a video posted by the team’s official account on X:
With his family beside him, Gasol thanked the coaches he played for in Memphis and the guys he played with. The All-Star big man also thanked the fans and the city itself for the love and respect they shown him during his time there.
Without a doubt, Gasol is one of the most talented guys, not only to have played for Memphis, but in the NBA as a whole. Now that his jersey is up on the rafters, the Spanish star’s legacy with the franchise is set for good.
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