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Memphis Grizzlies Make Shock Head Coaching Decision Just Weeks Before Playoffs

Originally posted on The Spun | By Gautam Varier | Last updated Mar 28, 2025 12:57 PM ET

The Memphis Grizzlies have had somewhat of an up-and-down 2024-25 season, but they still find themselves fifth in the Western Conference with a 44-29 record. The Grizzlies look set to make the playoffs this year after missing out in 2024, but they've decided to make a major head coaching decision just weeks before it.

The Grizzlies shocked the basketball world on Friday morning by announcing that they're parting ways with head coach Taylor Jenkins. Grizzlies President and GM of Basketball Operations Zach Kleiman released this statement regarding the decision.

“I’m genuinely appreciative of Taylor’s contributions to this team and this city over the past six seasons," Kleiman said. "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.”

The @memgrizz today announced they have parted ways with head coach Taylor Jenkins. pic.twitter.com/92PAK2NssN
— Grizzlies PR (@GrizzliesPR) March 28, 2025

The timing of this decision is shocking. You don't see head coaches fired this late into the season when a team is fifth in the standings. The Grizzlies have struggled after the All-Star break, though, going 8-11 in 19 games, and the team could well be hoping that a head coaching change gives them a much-needed boost.

According to NBA insider Shams Charania, Jenkins was called into the Grizzlies' office on Friday morning and fired in person. There is still no word on who will be taking over for him.

The Grizzlies had hired Jenkins in 2019, and he led the team to the playoffs in three of his first four seasons. He now departs with a respectable 250-214 record.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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