Grizzlies unexpectedly part ways with Taylor Jenkins in stunning coaching change
The Memphis Grizzlies announced on Friday afternoon that they have fired head coach Taylor Jenkins, marking a surprising move for the team.
Jenkins, 40, had been with the Grizzlies since the start of the 2019-20 season, leading them to the playoffs for three consecutive years. Under his guidance, Memphis secured their first playoff series win in 2022 since the 2014-15 season.
“I am truly grateful for Taylor’s contributions to this team and city over the past six years,” said Grizzlies general manager Zach Kleiman in a statement. “This was a tough choice, given the consistent growth of our players and the overall success under Taylor’s leadership. I wish him the best in his future endeavors.”
Jenkins departs the Grizzlies with a record of 250-214 in his six seasons. With the offseason approaching, Jenkins will be a prime candidate for any team seeking a new head coach. It would be surprising if he didn’t secure a position for the 2025-26 NBA season.
No specific reasons have been given for the franchise’s decision to let go of Jenkins on Friday, but league sources confirmed that it was a choice made by Kleiman.
In a surprising move at the close of the regular season, the Grizzlies now find themselves without a head coach while still in contention for a high spot in the Western Conference playoff race.
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The Grizzlies are currently 44-29, tied with the Los Angeles Lakers for the fourth-best record in the West and only 3.5 games behind the Houston Rockets for second place.
However, Memphis has been struggling in recent weeks, losing five of their last seven games and falling down the standings. With increasing frustration and criticism over recent performances, the decision to part ways with Jenkins was made.
Ongoing struggles against teams with losing records and a noticeable disconnect between players and the coaching staff likely led to Jenkins’ firing.
While the Grizzlies recently defeated the Utah Jazz 140-103, tensions between players became more apparent when Desmond Bane was seen arguing with and shoving Santi Aldama on the sidelines. The altercation was quickly separated, but it remained an internal matter that went unaddressed by the team.
Another factor contributing to Memphis’ difficulties this season has been Ja Morant’s recurring injuries. The star point guard has only appeared in 43 games this season after missing nearly all of the 2023-24 campaign due to a shoulder injury that required surgery. Morant has not played since March 15 due to a persistent hamstring issue.
Despite currently being 15 games above .500 and gearing up for a playoff push, the Grizzlies made the shocking decision to fire Jenkins in his sixth season with the team.
