Celebrating the best players and moments of the last 10 years of Memphis Grizzlies basketball
The Locked On Grizzlies podcast celebrates its 10th anniversary with a special retrospective on the Memphis Grizzlies' most iconic players and moments from the last decade. Hosts Joe Mullinax and DeMichael Cole rank John Morant as the top player of the era, praising his electrifying play, cultural impact, and peak performance when ESPN ranked him ninth in the NBA. They highlight Ja’s 52-point explosion against the Spurs, his triple-double in the Timberwolves series, and his fearless leadership that inspired a generation of fans. The list also honors key contributors like Tyus Jones, Marc Gasol, Mike Conley, and Jaron Jackson Jr., whose growth from raw talent to creative scorer symbolized the team’s evolution. The episode then shifts to unforgettable moments: Marcus Smart’s overtime dagger in 2017, the 'Take that for data' catchphrase from David Fisdale, and the Grizzlies’ defiant soundbites against LeBron James. These moments, captured in locker room celebrations and viral quotes, defined a unique era of grit, identity, and unapologetic swagger. The hosts reflect on how the podcast network helped shape this narrative, celebrating not just basketball, but a community built around shared passion and resilience.
Rank John Morant as the #1 Memphis Grizzlies player of the last decade due to his peak performance, cultural impact, and 52-point game against the Spurs.
Tyus Jones earned a top-10 spot for his calm leadership and clutch play during Ja Morant’s injuries, including a 20-4 win streak as starter.
Marc Gasol and Mike Conley were pivotal in transitioning the Grizzlies from Grit and Grind to the Next Gen era, enabling future trades and roster development.
Jaron Jackson Jr. evolved from a limited scorer to one of the league’s best isolation players, proving growth through physical and mental development.
The Grizzlies’ 2022-23 playoff run against the Timberwolves was defined by grit, trash talk, and celebration—symbolized by the 'running up the chimney' phrase.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Celebrating 10 Years of Locked On Podcast Network
The episode opens with a tribute to the 10-year anniversary of the Locked On Podcast Network, setting the tone for a special edition focused on Memphis Grizzlies history.
Introducing the Top 10 Players of the Last Decade
“The peak of the Grizz Next Gen era was up there with just about anything Grit and Grind did.”
Ranking the Top 10 Players: From Tyus Jones to Ja Morant
The hosts detail their rankings, highlighting Tyus Jones as a 'calm substitute teacher,' Jonas Valanciunas' offensive dominance, and the defensive impact of Steven Adams and Brandon Clark.
Top 4: Conley, Gasol, Jackson Jr., and Morant
“He was rated as the ninth best player in the entire league. And he said, I got eight more spots to go.”
Top 10 Moments: A Nostalgic Journey
The hosts transition to recounting their favorite moments from the last 10 years, not in order, but with emotional and cultural significance.
“He was rated as the ninth best player in the entire league. And he said, I got eight more spots to go.”
“The peak of the Grizz Next Gen era was up there with just about anything Grit and Grind did.”
“And Ja says, you know, like, we running up the chimney. We ain't took it no smoke.”
Hosts
John Morant
person
Locked On Podcast Network
organization
Joe Mullinax
person
DeMichael Cole
person
Jaron Jackson Jr.
person
Marc Gasol
person
Mike Conley
person
Tyus Jones
person
Desmond Bain
person
Brandon Clark
person
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