Grizzlies unveil “Take that for data” t-shirts inspired by David Fizdale’s post-game rant

The Memphis Grizzlies have released new t-shirt inspired by head coach David Fizdale’s post-game rant after Game 2.

The Memphis Grizzlies’ 2017 NBA playoffs have been pretty forgettable. In both games against the San Antonio Spurs, the Grizzlies have mustered just 82 points. Still, that hasn’t stopped the Memphis faithful and the internet from rallying around their team, specifically, head coach David Fizdale.

After Game 2, a 96-82 loss, Fizdale went off about the officiating, claiming the refs were unjustly favoring the Spurs in foul calls, despite the Grizzlies’ higher number of shot attempts inside the paint. From the moment Fizdale slammed his pen and walked out of the press conference, he became a coaching legend, etching his name onto the list of great post-game rants, up there with Dennis Green, Herm Edwards, Doc Rivers and Jim Mora.

And, naturally, after something goes viral, the next step is to capitalize on the momentum. (What Yogurt exclaimed in Spaceballs as merchandising!) Mere hours after the game ended, the Grizzlies unveiled their newest T-shirt in support of their coach:

The shirt says “Take that for data,” which was Fizdale’s closing line before he stormed out of his post-game media duties — a closing line that would garner a standing ovation in your public speaking class or an automatic forfeit from an opposing debate team, were you to use it in those situations. In the foreground is a silhouette of Fizdale’s now signature glasses.

“Take that for data” is the latest in a long list of instant classics uttered this NBA season. A list that includes Kevin Durant not giving a damn about Drake night and Russell Westbrook possibly yelling “Thank you, Kyrie!”

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The fine from the NBA is coming, but Fizdale has become a cult hero, and before tip-off for Game 3, when the refs take the floor, they’ll see the wave of dark blue shirts stamped with Fizdale’s glasses.