DALLAS, TX - OCTOBER 7: Zach Edey #14 of the Memphis Grizzlies celebrates scoring a basket against the Dallas Mavericks in the first half of a preseason game at American Airlines Center on October 7, 2024 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ron Jenkins/Getty Images)Ron Jenkins/Getty Images

Zach Edey Starts for Grizzlies, Impresses Fans in NBA Preseason Debut vs. Mavs

Taylyn HadleyOct 7, 2024

NBA rookie Zach Edey and the Memphis Grizzlies opened their preseason against the Dallas Mavericks on Monday night with a 121-116 victory.

In Edey's first game donning navy blue and yellow, the starter put up six points and four rebounds with one block and one steal.

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Fifth-year Memphis star Ja Morant added 13 points, four rebounds and three assists, while Brandon Clarke came off the bench and contributed 17 points.

The 22-year-old was selected by the Grizzlies ninth overall in the 2024 draft after an outstanding senior year at Purdue, where he averaged 25.2 points, 12.2 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game while shooting 62.3 percent from the field.

Standing at 7'4", the center is tied with Spurs star Victor Wembanyama as the tallest player in the NBA this season.

Edey's impressive height, combined with his surprising athleticism and stature, makes him a defensive nightmare for a Grizzlies team that ranked No. 19 in defensive rating last season.