Grizzlies guard gets revenge on former coach in win

"One of the coaches over there" seems to refer to Darvin Ham, now Doc Rivers' lead assistant in Milwaukee. Ham was head coach of the Lakers in 2022-23 when Pippen, playing on a two-way contract, logged just 32 minutes on the season. 

After starting the 2023-24 season with the South Bay Lakers of the G League, Pippen signed a two-way deal with Memphis in January, where he blossomed.

With Ja Morant out, Pippen started 16 games for the Grizzlies, averaging 12.9 points and shooting 41.7% from three-point range. He also showed off his defense, averaging 1.7 steals and 0.5 blocks per game, impressive for a 6-foot-1 guard. In October, Memphis rewarded Pippen with a four-year contract.

Pippen wasn't the only Laker who had issues with Ham ignoring young players. The team was reportedly unhappy that Rui Hachimura didn't become a full-time starter until February, and Austin Reaves was periodically pulled from the starting lineup. Meanwhile, veteran Taurean Prince played 27 minutes per game and started 49 times.

Prince reunited with Ham this season, and he's started all five games of the Bucks' 1-4 start. Thursday night, Prince had five points in 27 minutes, during which the Bucks were outscored by 22 points.

Regardless, Pippen made a statement Thursday night. It's another reason why the Grizzlies believe in him.