The Memphis Grizzlies have always had a knack for finding and developing talented players. From acquiring stars like Pau Gasol and Marc Gasol to the likes of Mike Conley and Tony Allen, the Grizzlies have consistently built competitive teams. As a result, the team has seen its fair share of great players over the years.
Honorable Mentions
Before getting into the top ten players, here are some of the players who just missed the cut. Players like James Posey, Stromile Swift, and Mike Bibby all had productive seasons with the Grizzlies, but they didn’t quite make the list.
Number 10: Shareef Abdur-Rahim
Shareef Abdur-Rahim was the Grizzlies’ first-ever draft pick, and he didn’t disappoint. In his five seasons with the team, Abdur-Rahim averaged 20.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game. He was the team’s leading scorer in all five seasons and was named to the All-Star team in 2002. Abdur-Rahim was also a leader on and off the court, serving as the team’s captain during his tenure. Although he never led the team to the playoffs, his impact on the franchise cannot be ignored.
Number 9: Shane Battier
Shane Battier was a key part of the Grizzlies’ “Grit and Grind” era. He was a versatile defender who could guard multiple positions and was always willing to do the dirty work. Battier played six seasons with the Grizzlies and averaged 8.6 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game. He was also named to the NBA All-Defensive team twice and was a finalist for the NBA’s Sportsmanship Award three times. Battier’s selfless play and leadership made him a fan favorite and a valuable asset to the team.
Number 8: Zach Randolph
Zach Randolph was a force in the paint during his time with the Grizzlies. He played eight seasons with the team and averaged 16.8 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game. Randolph was a two-time All-Star and was named to the All-NBA third team in 2011. He was also a leader on and off the court, known for his work in the community and his mentorship of younger players. Randolph helped lead the Grizzlies to seven straight playoff appearances and was a key part of the team’s success during the “Grit and Grind” era.
Number 7: Pau Gasol
Pau Gasol was the Grizzlies’ franchise player for many years. He was drafted by the team in 2001 and played seven seasons in Memphis. Gasol averaged 18.8 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game with the Grizzlies and was named to the All-Star team three times. He was also named the NBA Rookie of the Year in 2002 and was a member of the All-NBA second team in 2009. Gasol led the Grizzlies to three playoff appearances during his tenure and was a dominant force on both ends of the court.
Number 6: Mike Conley
Mike Conley is the Grizzlies’ all-time leader in assists and steals. He played 12 seasons with the team and averaged 14.9 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game. Conley was a great defender and was named to the NBA All-Defensive team twice. He was also a leader on and off the court, serving as the team’s point guard and captain for many years. Conley helped lead the Grizzlies to seven straight playoff appearances and was a key part of the team’s success during the “Grit and Grind” era.
Number 5: Tony Allen
Tony Allen was the heart and soul of the Grizzlies’ defense during his time with the team. He played seven seasons in Memphis and was named to the NBA All-Defensive team three times. Allen was a tenacious defender who could guard multiple positions and was always willing to do the dirty work. He also had a knack for making big plays on offense and was known for his infectious personality. Allen helped lead the Grizzlies to seven straight playoff appearances and was a fan favorite during his time in Memphis.
Number 4: Marc Gasol
Marc Gasol is one of the best centers in Grizzlies history. He played 11 seasons with the team and averaged 15.2 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game. Gasol was a three-time All-Star and was named the NBA Defensive Player of the Year in 2013. He was also a leader on and off the court, serving as the team’s center and captain for many years. Gasol helped lead the Grizzlies to seven straight playoff appearances and was a dominant force on both ends of the court.
Number 3: Rudy Gay
Rudy Gay was one of the most explosive scorers in Grizzlies history. He played six seasons with the team and averaged 18.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game. Gay was a two-time All-Star and was named to the NBA All-Rookie first team in 2007. He was also a fan favorite and was known for his acrobatic dunks and clutch shots. Gay helped lead the Grizzlies to three playoff appearances during his tenure and was a key part of the team’s success.
Number 2: Jason Williams
Jason Williams was one of the most electrifying players in Grizzlies history. He played two seasons with the team and averaged 14.2 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 6.4 assists per game. Williams was known for his flashy passes and highlight-reel plays, which earned him the nickname “White Chocolate.” He was also a fan favorite and helped bring excitement to the team during his tenure. Although Williams’ time with the Grizzlies was short, his impact on the franchise cannot be denied.
Number 1: Mike Miller
Mike Miller is the greatest Grizzlies player of all time. He played six seasons with the team and averaged 14.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game. Miller was a deadly three-point shooter and was named the NBA Rookie of the Year in 2001. He was also a fan favorite and was known for his hustle and grit. Miller helped lead the Grizzlies to their first-ever playoff appearance in 2004 and was a key part of the team’s success during his tenure.
