Zach Edey Sends Clear Message After Grizzlies Get Swept

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Apr 29, 2025 9:01 PM ET

The Memphis Grizzlies' 2024-25 season concluded with a disappointing first-round playoff sweep at the hands of the Oklahoma City Thunder. After a promising start, the team faced setbacks, including the mid-season dismissal of head coach Taylor Jenkins and a late-season injury to star guard Ja Morant. These challenges contributed to the Grizzlies' decline from a strong early record to an eighth-place finish in the Western Conference and an early playoff exit.

Amidst the team's struggles, rookie center Zach Edey faced high expectations following his selection as the ninth overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. Edey, a two-time National College Player of the Year at Purdue, entered the league with significant anticipation.

During the regular season, he averaged 9.2 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game while shooting 58.0% from the field.

In the playoffs, Edey's performance was a mix of challenges and highlights. Notably, in Game 4 against the Thunder, he recorded eight points, eight rebounds, and seven blocks, becoming the first rookie since Serge Ibaka in 2010 to average at least seven blocks in a playoff game.

Reflecting on his rookie season, Edey expressed a commitment to improvement, stating, "I promise you I’ll put my head down and work hard."

Zach Edey on his offseason approach:

“I promise you I’ll put my head down and work hard.”
— Damichael Cole (@DamichaelC) April 27, 2025

Edey played all four games in the playoff series against the Thunder, and averaged 6.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks.

As the Grizzlies enter the offseason, they face crucial decisions regarding their roster and coaching staff. Edey's development will be a key focus as the team aims to rebound from a challenging season and return to playoff contention.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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