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Cedric Coward’s performance proves the Memphis Grizzlies have drafted a future superstar
Photo by Harry How/Getty Images

The Memphis Grizzlies may have hit gold with their No. 11 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.

The 2025 NBA Draft was headlined by the likes of Cooper Flagg, Dylan Harper, and VJ Edgecombe.

While these are some of the most talked-about rookies, there’s a rather underrated prospect who the Memphis Grizzlies selected.

It’s none other than the 11th overall pick, Cedric Coward, and he’s off to a brilliant start in his rookie year.

Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images

Cedric Coward shows early signs of future stardom

When the Grizzlies traded Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic, it meant the organization was in need of a talented shooting guard.

While Jaylen Wells remains the Grizzlies’ starting shooting guard, Coward has surprised many with his first three games of the season.

Coward has averaged a solid 19.0 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game while shooting an extraordinary 70.4% from the field and 72.7% from the three-point line.

The rookie guard had the best performance of his young career during the Grizzlies’ recent matchup against the Indiana Pacers.

Coward finished the night with 27 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists in just 24 minutes of playing time as the Grizzlies registered a 128-103 win over the Pacers.

It may be too early to label him as a bona fide star for the Grizzlies, but it’s an excellent start for the 11th overall pick.

Cedric Coward’s NCAA stats

Prior to declaring for the 2025 NBA Draft, Coward spent three years with major programs in the NCAA.

During his tenure, he put up 11.8 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game. Coward shot 59.5% from the field and 38.8% from the three-point line during his collegiate career.

At 22 years old, Coward has polished his skills well, and getting drafted to the Grizzlies has certainly given him a platform to showcase them on a nightly basis.

Will he continue to play at this level or was it just a hot streak? Only time will tell.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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