History of Memphis Grizzlies in Timeline
The Memphis Grizzlies are an American professional basketball team based in Memphis, Tennessee. They are part of the NBA's Western Conference Southwest Division. The Grizzlies are the only major professional sports team in Memphis and the only professional basketball team in Tennessee. Their home games are played at FedExForum.
1968: Original "City" uniform inspiration
The original "City" uniform of the Memphis Grizzlies, introduced during the Nike contract, was inspired by the "I am a Man" protest banners from the 1968 Memphis sanitation strike.
1970: Memphis Sounds join the ABA
In 1970, Memphis was represented by the Memphis Sounds, a basketball team in the American Basketball Association (ABA), marking the city's involvement in professional basketball during this period.
1974: Original Memphis Grizzlies in World Football League
In 1974, the original Memphis Grizzlies franchise played in the World Football League. This unrelated team shared the 'Grizzlies' name and added to Memphis's rich sports history.
1975: Memphis Sounds exit ABA
In 1975, the Memphis Sounds concluded their participation in the American Basketball Association (ABA), marking the end of this chapter in Memphis basketball history.
1975: Original Memphis Grizzlies conclude WFL tenure
In 1975, the original Memphis Grizzlies concluded their time in the World Football League, ending a brief period in Memphis's sports history.
1995: Introduction of Grizz
Grizz, the official mascot of the Memphis Grizzlies, was introduced in 1995 when the team was based in Vancouver, British Columbia.
1995: Vancouver Grizzlies established
In 1995, the Vancouver Grizzlies were established as an NBA expansion team in Vancouver, British Columbia. This marked their entry into the league for the 1995-96 season, alongside the Toronto Raptors, as part of the NBA's expansion into Canada.
1997: Grizzlies trade draft pick to Pistons
In 1997, the Grizzlies traded their future first-round draft pick to the Detroit Pistons in exchange for Otis Thorpe, a move that would later be considered one of the most lopsided trades after the draft pick ended up as the second overall in 2003.
2000: Grizzlies move to Memphis
In 2000, after the conclusion of the 2000-01 NBA season, the Vancouver Grizzlies relocated to Memphis, Tennessee, marking the end of their tenure in Canada and the beginning of their journey as the Memphis Grizzlies.
2000: Last Season-Opening Victory
The Memphis Grizzlies had last won a season opener in 2000.
March 26, 2001: Grizzlies apply for relocation to Memphis
On March 26, 2001, the Vancouver Grizzlies submitted an application to the NBA to relocate to Memphis, Tennessee, which was subsequently approved on July 3, 2001, officially marking the team's move from Vancouver.
2002: Jerry West hired as Grizzlies GM
In 2002, Jerry West, a Hall of Famer and former Los Angeles Laker, was hired as the general manager of the Memphis Grizzlies, bringing significant changes to the team and setting a new direction for the franchise.
2002: Grizzlies Have Worst Start Since 2002-03 Season
The Memphis Grizzlies had their worst start to a season since the 2002-03 season, starting with zero wins and six losses.
2003: Jerry West wins NBA Executive of the Year
In 2003, Jerry West, the general manager of the Memphis Grizzlies, was awarded the NBA Executive of the Year Award, recognizing his impactful leadership and successful management of the team.
2003: Grizzlies' draft pick loss impacts future prospects
In 2003, the Grizzlies lost the second overall pick in the NBA draft due to a trade with the Detroit Pistons in 1997 for Otis Thorpe. This loss prevented them from selecting future All-Stars, marking one of the most lopsided trades in NBA history.
2004: Debut of Growl Towels
Growl Towels, the trademark gold rally towels of the Memphis Grizzlies, debuted in 2004 during the franchise's first ever playoff series.
2004: Grizzlies make NBA playoffs for the first time
In 2004, the Memphis Grizzlies made their first NBA playoff appearance as the sixth seed in the Western Conference. Despite winning a then-record 50 games, they were swept by the San Antonio Spurs in the first round.
2004: Grizzlies Release New Uniforms
The Memphis Grizzlies released a new uniform design in 2004.
2004: Start of Grizzlies vs. Spurs rivalry
The Memphis Grizzlies' rivalry with the San Antonio Spurs began in 2004 when the Spurs swept the Grizzlies in the first round of the playoffs.
2005: Grizzlies revamp team and make playoffs again
In 2005, after a season of internal strife and roster changes, the Grizzlies revamped their lineup by adding veterans like Damon Stoudamire and Eddie Jones. This overhaul helped them reach the playoffs for the third consecutive year, although they were swept by the Dallas Mavericks.
2005: Switch to gold Growl Towels
In the 2004–2005 season, the Memphis Grizzlies switched their Growl Towels to gold, aligning with the team's color change.
2006: Grizzlies face challenges with Gasol's injury
In 2006, Pau Gasol broke his left foot, impacting the Grizzlies' start to the season. The team's struggles led to the firing of head coach Mike Fratello, who was replaced by Tony Barone, Sr. as interim coach.
June 18, 2007: Chris Wallace appointed as Grizzlies GM
On June 18, 2007, Chris Wallace was named general manager and vice president of basketball operations for the Memphis Grizzlies, succeeding Jerry West and bringing new leadership to the organization.
August 16, 2007: Gene Bartow named president of basketball operations
On August 16, 2007, Gene Bartow was appointed as the president of basketball operations for the Memphis Grizzlies, marking a significant addition to the team's leadership.
2007: Grizzlies hire new head coach and draft Mike Conley Jr.
In 2007, despite finishing last in the league, the Grizzlies hired Marc Iavaroni as head coach and selected Mike Conley Jr. with the fourth pick in the NBA draft, aiming to rebuild the team for future success.
2007: Grizz's performer diagnosed with cancer
In 2007, the performer playing Grizz was diagnosed with cancer, leading the Memphis Grizzlies to pause his appearances and launch a support program for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
February 1, 2008: Pau Gasol traded to Los Angeles Lakers
On February 1, 2008, Pau Gasol was traded from the Memphis Grizzlies to the Los Angeles Lakers, a major move that included several players and draft picks, notably gaining rights to Marc Gasol for the Grizzlies.
January 22, 2009: Head coach Marc Iavaroni fired
On January 22, 2009, the Memphis Grizzlies fired head coach Marc Iavaroni, following a period of underperformance, and replaced him temporarily with assistant coach Johnny Davis.
January 25, 2009: Lionel Hollins named Grizzlies head coach
On January 25, 2009, Lionel Hollins was named the permanent head coach of the Memphis Grizzlies, marking a new chapter in the team's coaching staff.
June 25, 2009: NBA Draft Selections
On June 25, 2009, the Memphis Grizzlies secured Hasheem Thabeet as the second overall pick and DeMarre Carroll as the 27th overall pick in the NBA draft.
September 9, 2009: Allen Iverson Signing
On September 9, 2009, the Memphis Grizzlies signed Allen Iverson to a one-year, $3.5 million contract. Iverson's time with the team was short-lived as he only played three games before leaving due to personal reasons.
2009: Grizzlies Release Alternate Uniform
The Memphis Grizzlies released an alternate uniform in 2009.
2010: "Grit and Grind" Style Emerges
During the 2010-2011 season, the Memphis Grizzlies became known for their "Grit and Grind" style of basketball, characterized by aggressive defense and a strong inside offense.
2010: Marc Gasol and Hamed Haddadi Resign
Following the 2010-11 season, the Memphis Grizzlies re-signed Marc Gasol and Hamed Haddadi.
2010: Tenth Year Anniversary in Memphis
In 2010, the Memphis Grizzlies celebrated their tenth anniversary of basketball in Memphis.
2010: Grizzlies Switch to Adidas' Revolution 30 System
The Memphis Grizzlies switched to Adidas' Revolution 30 system in 2010.
February 2011: Trade with Houston Rockets
In February 2011, the Grizzlies engaged in a trade with the Houston Rockets, sending Hasheem Thabeet, DeMarre Carroll, and a protected future first-round pick in exchange for Shane Battier and Ishmael Smith.
April 8, 2011: Grizzlies Secure Playoff Berth
On April 8, 2011, the Memphis Grizzlies clinched their first playoff appearance in five years with a 101-96 home victory against the Sacramento Kings.
2011: Grizz wins NBA Mascot of the Year
In 2011, Grizz, the mascot of the Memphis Grizzlies, was awarded the NBA Mascot of the Year, recognizing his popularity and performance.
2011: Grizzlies vs. Thunder playoff matchup
In 2011, the Memphis Grizzlies and Oklahoma City Thunder faced off in the playoffs, with the Thunder winning in the conference semifinals.
2011: Grizzlies upset Spurs in playoffs
In the 2011 NBA playoffs, the Memphis Grizzlies upset the San Antonio Spurs in six games, marking only the fourth time an 8th seed beat a first seed in the playoffs.
2011: Historic Playoff Run
The Memphis Grizzlies achieved several franchise firsts in the 2011 NBA playoffs, including their first playoff game win, first home playoff game win, and first playoff series win. As an eighth seed, they upset the top-seeded San Antonio Spurs in the first round.
2011: Franchise Record and Conference Finals Appearance
The Memphis Grizzlies achieved their best franchise record of 56-26 and advanced to the Western Conference Finals for the first time in franchise history. Marc Gasol was named NBA Defensive Player of the Year.
2011: Start of seven consecutive playoff runs
The Memphis Grizzlies began a streak of seven consecutive playoff runs starting in 2011, during which Growl Towels became a staple at home games.
2011: Strong Regular Season Finish
The Memphis Grizzlies concluded the 2011-12 season with a 41-25 record, earning them the fourth seed in the Western Conference. However, their playoff run was cut short as they were defeated by the Los Angeles Clippers in the first round.
2011: Grizzlies vs. Clippers rivalry begins
The Memphis Grizzlies' rivalry with the Los Angeles Clippers began in the 2011–12 season, marked by intense playoff matchups and player scuffles.
April 18, 2012: Grizzlies Return to Playoffs
On April 18, 2012, the Memphis Grizzlies secured their second playoff appearance in six years with a 103-91 home victory over the New Orleans Hornets.
December 13, 2012: John Hollinger Joins Grizzlies
On December 13, 2012, ESPN announced that John Hollinger had been hired by the Memphis Grizzlies as their new vice president of basketball operations.
2012: Off-Season Acquisitions
During the 2012 off-season, the Memphis Grizzlies drafted Tony Wroten with the 25th overall pick. They also made efforts to bolster their bench by signing Jerryd Bayless and trading for Wayne Ellington from the Minnesota Timberwolves in exchange for Dante Cunningham.
2012: Grizzlies eliminated by Clippers
In the 2012 NBA playoffs, the Memphis Grizzlies were eliminated by the Los Angeles Clippers in seven games, intensifying their rivalry.
January 23, 2013: Trade for Jon Leuer
On January 23, 2013, the Memphis Grizzlies acquired Jon Leuer from the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for Marreese Speights, Wayne Ellington, Josh Selby, and a future first-round draft pick.
2013: Spurs sweep Grizzlies in conference finals
During the 2013 conference finals, the San Antonio Spurs swept the Memphis Grizzlies, advancing to the NBA Finals.
2013: Growl Towels achieve league-wide recognition
Growl Towels gained notable recognition across the league during the Memphis Grizzlies' 2013 run to the Western Conference Finals, with over 100,000 towels printed.
2013: Al Kapone's song becomes a Grizzlies chant
In 2013, a song by Memphis rapper Al Kapone became a standard chant during Grizzlies games, originating spontaneously among fans during a playoff series against the Los Angeles Clippers.
2013: Grizzlies defeat Thunder in playoffs
The Memphis Grizzlies defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder in five games during the 2013 conference semifinals before being beaten by the Spurs in the conference finals.
2013: Grizzlies eliminate Clippers in playoffs
The Memphis Grizzlies eliminated the Los Angeles Clippers in six games during the first round of the 2013 NBA playoffs, returning the favor from the previous year's defeat.
2013: Up and Down Season and Playoff Series Loss
The Memphis Grizzlies experienced a challenging 2013-14 season, marked by an inconsistent start. Despite a late-season surge, they fell to the Oklahoma City Thunder in a hard-fought seven-game playoff series.
October 29, 2014: Season-Opening Victory
On October 29, 2014, the Memphis Grizzlies secured a 105-101 win against the Minnesota Timberwolves, marking their first victory in a season opener since the year 2000.
2014: Grizzlies and Clippers rivalry continues
Although not meeting in the 2014 playoffs, the Memphis Grizzlies and Los Angeles Clippers continued their heated rivalry with close matchups in the 2014–15 season.
2014: Thunder beats Grizzlies in playoffs
In the 2014 conference quarterfinals, the Oklahoma City Thunder bested the Memphis Grizzlies in seven games, continuing their playoff rivalry.
2014: Playoff Run and Series Loss to Warriors
In the 2014-15 season, the Memphis Grizzlies reached the NBA playoffs as the fifth seed. They overcame the Portland Trail Blazers in the first round but were defeated by the top-seeded Golden State Warriors in the second round.
April 1, 2016: NBA Record for Players Signed
On April 1, 2016, the Memphis Grizzlies set an NBA record by signing their 28th player for the season.
2016: Spurs sweep Grizzlies again
In 2016, the Memphis Grizzlies were swept by the San Antonio Spurs in the playoffs, hindered by multiple injuries throughout the season.
July 6, 2017: Zach Randolph's Number Retirement Announced
On July 6, 2017, the Memphis Grizzlies announced their intention to retire Zach Randolph's number 50 jersey. Randolph, who became a free agent, later signed with the Sacramento Kings. Tony Allen also departed the Grizzlies, joining the New Orleans Pelicans, marking the end of the "Grit and Grind" era.
2017: Grizzlies switch to Nike uniforms
In 2017, after switching to Nike, the Memphis Grizzlies made minimal changes to their uniforms, except for the Beale Street alternates which now featured the player's name below the number.
2017: Grizzlies Miss Playoffs for First Time Since 2009-10 Season
The Memphis Grizzlies missed the playoffs in 2017 for the first time since the 2009-2010 season.
2017: Grizzlies Wear Black Sleeved Uniforms
The Memphis Grizzlies wore a black sleeved uniform in 2017 as a tribute to Martin Luther King Jr.
March 17, 2018: Grizzlies Tie Longest Losing Streak in Franchise History
On March 17, 2018, the Memphis Grizzlies tied their longest losing streak in franchise history with 19 straight losses.
2018: 2018–19 "City" uniform tribute
In the 2018–19 season, the Memphis Grizzlies' "City" uniform featured a grey base and gold letters, paying tribute to professional wrestling in Memphis.
2019: No "City" uniform in 2019–20 season
During the 2019–20 season, the Memphis Grizzlies opted not to wear a "City" uniform and instead wore throwback Vancouver Grizzlies uniforms.
2020: Desmond Bane Drafted by Grizzlies
Desmond Bane was drafted by the Memphis Grizzlies with the 30th overall pick in the 2020 NBA draft.
2020: 2020–21 "City" uniform tribute
In the 2020–21 season, the Grizzlies wore "City" uniforms with a black base, metallic gold lettering, and turquoise trim, honoring Isaac Hayes and Stax Records.
2020: Ja Morant Wins Rookie of the Year
Ja Morant was named the NBA Rookie of the Year in 2020.
May 19, 2021: Grizzlies Defeat Spurs in Play-In Tournament
The Memphis Grizzlies defeated the San Antonio Spurs 100 - 96 in the play-in tournament on May 19, 2021.
May 21, 2021: Grizzlies Defeat Warriors to Clinch Playoff Berth
The Memphis Grizzlies defeated the Golden State Warriors on May 21, 2021 to clinch a playoff berth.
November 2021: Postponement of Tony Allen's jersey retirement
In November 2021, the Memphis Grizzlies announced the postponement of Tony Allen's jersey retirement ceremony initially planned for January 28, 2022.
2021: 2021–22 commemorative "City" uniform
The 2021–22 season saw the Memphis Grizzlies wear a commemorative "City" uniform mixing styles from the Vancouver era and the "Grit and Grind" and modern eras.
2021: Grizzlies defeat Spurs in play-in tournament
The Memphis Grizzlies defeated the San Antonio Spurs in the 2021 play-in tournament with a score of 100–96, gaining payback for past playoff defeats.
January 28, 2022: Planned retirement of Tony Allen's jersey
The Memphis Grizzlies originally planned to retire Tony Allen's no. 9 jersey on January 28, 2022, but the ceremony was postponed at Allen's request.
March 30, 2022: Grizzlies Clinch First Division Title
The Memphis Grizzlies clinched their first division title in franchise history on March 30, 2022, after defeating the San Antonio Spurs.
August 11, 2022: NBA retires Bill Russell's No. 6
On August 11, 2022, the NBA retired Bill Russell's No. 6 jersey for all its member teams, honoring the legendary player's contribution to the sport.
2022: 2022–23 "City" uniform homage
For the 2022–23 season, the Memphis Grizzlies wore black "City" uniforms with Beale Street blue, chrome, and gold accents, celebrating the Memphis rap genre.
2022: Modification of "Statement" uniform
In 2022, the Memphis Grizzlies modified their "Statement" uniform, featuring a full team name in front, the primary logo on the right leg, and "MEM" lines on the striping and beltline.
2022: Jaren Jackson Jr. Wins Defensive Player of the Year
Jaren Jackson Jr. was named the NBA Defensive Player of the Year during the 2022 season.
2023: 2023–24 "City" uniform theme
The 2023–24 "City" uniform for the Memphis Grizzlies represents the joy of growing up playing basketball on local courts, featuring a black base with "MEM" lines in white and gold numbers.
2023: Grizzlies Sign Derrick Rose, Trade for Josh Christopher
The Memphis Grizzlies signed veteran and former MVP Derrick Rose and acquired Josh Christopher in exchange for Dillon Brooks in 2023.
September 2024: Announcement of Tony Allen's jersey retirement date
In September 2024, the Memphis Grizzlies announced the new date for Tony Allen's jersey retirement ceremony, scheduled for March 15, 2025.
October 19, 2024: Last transaction date
On October 19, 2024, the Memphis Grizzlies made their last recorded roster transaction.
March 15, 2025: Tony Allen's jersey retirement rescheduled
The ceremony to retire Tony Allen's no. 9 jersey was rescheduled to March 15, 2025, as announced in September 2024.
