Zach Edey

Ensured of respect in some facet, given the résumé he built on the college scene, Zach Edey left skeptics with only one question upon his NBA arrival: was there another level his game could reach? In using his 7-foot-10 wingspan to create a memorable sequence on two different levels, the Memphis Grizzlies’ No. 9 pick left such questions with a resounding “yes” on November 4, 2024. Presented with the quickly-moving threat of Dennis Schröder’s rim-bound spin-and-drive, Edey showcases quick instincts, using an intimidating enough presence to encourage both a miss, and Memphis’ transition runout. With the fastbreak seas parted, and no Brooklyn Nets within airspace of his up-the-floor race, Edey takes full advantage, burying a catch-and-shoot 3-pointer — just his career’s second — in the third quarter. For Edey, it represented growth, after having made only a single 3-pointer during his All-American, award-driven run at Purdue. Even in defeat, Edey’s night proved historic, as he collected 25 points (on 11-of-12 shooting), 12 rebounds, one assist, and four blocks, becoming the NBA’s first rookie since at least 1984 to reach said point-percentage landmarks.

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