The Memphis Grizzlies have bolstered their roster by selecting Zach Edey with the No. 9 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. Despite not being highly recruited out of high school, Edey developed into one of college basketball’s most decorated players while at Purdue. He joins the ranks of legends Bill Walton and Ralph Sampson as a two-time Naismith College Player of the Year award winner. His collegiate accolades also include two First-Team All-American selections, two Pete Newell Big Man Awards, and two Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Awards for being the nation’s top center. Last season, he led college basketball in both total points (983) and rebounds (474).
Edey’s playing style is a rarity in today’s NBA, harkening back to an era when the game was dominated by low-post players. Standing at 7’4″, he immediately becomes one of the tallest players in the league, and his size makes him a formidable presence near the basket and on the boards. However, this size advantage comes with concerns about his mobility and defensive versatility. The modern NBA, with its emphasis on spread pick-and-roll offense, demands big men who can defend the perimeter—something Edey will need to prove he can handle to succeed at the professional level. Players with similar profiles, such as Enes Kanter and Boban Marjanovic, have struggled defensively, which limited their playing time in critical situations.
The Grizzlies endured a challenging season last year. Star player Ja Morant faced a suspension at the start of the season and subsequently suffered an injury. Injuries plagued the roster, with Jaren Jackson Jr. being the only player to start more than 42 games. As a result, Memphis fell to the lottery after two consecutive seasons as the Western Conference’s No. 2 seed.
Edey’s arrival in Memphis fills a crucial gap left by the trade of Steven Adams last season. Adams was integral as a rebounder and rim protector, roles that Edey is poised to inherit. Edey will likely serve as a long-term replacement for Adams, providing interior scoring off the bench and supporting Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. His ability to score near the basket and dominate the glass will be vital as the Grizzlies aim to bounce back from a disappointing season.
Edey’s journey from an underrated recruit to a top NBA prospect is a testament to his hard work and development. As he transitions to the professional level, his performance will be closely watched to see if he can adapt his game to the modern NBA and fulfill his potential as a dominant force in the paint.
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