MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Memphis Grizzlies took a short break from NBA Draft preparation to give back to the Memphis community Tuesday. Part of their Raise the Rim event, the Grizzlies paid a visit to Fox Meadows Elementary.
Head Coach Taylor Jenkins was feeling especially generous. Before the season, he pledged $10 for every assist the Grizzlies dished out during the 2023-2024 season. The grand total came to be $20,250. Jenkins presented the check to students and news MSCS Superintendent Marie Feagins.
The Grizzlies also gifted the school new blacktop basketball courts. Students from the school broke the courts in with Jenkins, current player GG Jackson, former Grizzlies guard and broadcaster Brevin Knight and Grizzlies legend Tony Allen.
"There's so many kids deserving. It's going to be an annual tradition moving forward," Jenkins said. "To create an atmosphere for fun. Basketball created relationships, fun experiences, competition and growth opportunities."
"It's fun man, great cause man, I'm glad for the Grizzlies and coach (Jenkins) with his huge contribution. It was all for a great cause," Allen said.
Feagins only recently became superintendent for MSCS, but already recognized the important relationship the city, and her students, have with the Grizzlies.
"Sports in general is that one way that brings a community, a city together and the Grizzlies are just that. This is the city's team," Feagins said. "Certainly when you see them out in the community, as people who just love people, who love the sport that they play, but are committed to bringing the community with them it's always impactful."