MEMPHIS, Tenn. — It appears hard work is paying off for Memphis Grizzlies point guard Scotty Pippen Jr. The Grizzlies are converting Pippen from a two-way contract to a standard one, according to ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania.
Pippen appeared in 21 games for the Grizzlies in 2024 and started 16 games in what was an injury filled season for Memphis. He maximized the opportunity on the upper roster, averaging 12.9 points, 4.7 assists and 1.7 steals and turned in an excellent summer league. He was named to the all-summer league first team.
Entering the season, the Grizzlies had two open roster spots available. It became evident that Pippen may be a viable candidate to take one after former Grizzlies guard and MVP Derrick Rose announced his retirement in September.
At Grizzlies Media Day, Pippen made it clear that the front office had discussed the possibility of joining the main roster.
"I've been talking with (Grizzlies general manager Zach Kleiman) and Coach Taylor (Jenkins). They've been pretty transparent with me about steps going forward. There's definitely a path for me to get that roster spot so I'm just trying to go out there in training camp and just compete and just do whatever I can to get that spot," Pippen said.
The Grizzlies do have one roster spot remaining. It will be curious to see if a similar approach is taken with two-way big man Jay Huff or if the Grizzlies look to free agency to fill the spot.
The Grizzlies season opener is October 23 in the Delta Center to face the Utah Jazz.
