Memphis Grizzlies will be retiring Zach Randolph’s No. 50 jersey
By Nam Tran
The Memphis Grizzlies will be retiring and lifting Zach Randolph’s No. 50 jersey into the rafters.
Zach Randolph was the poster boy of the Memphis Grizzlies’ “Grit and Grind” mentality. He played rough, he hustled, and he perfected the art of bullying in the post. He was a fan favorite and played a key role in much of the Grizzlies’ success over the past eight seasons.
However, earlier this week, Randolph decided he wanted a change of scenery and agreed to a two-year deal with the Sacramento Kings. To show their appreciation for all that the former two-time All-Star has done for the organization, the Grizzlies’ general manager, Chris Wallace, and president of business operations, Jason Wexler, wrote in an open letter that the team will be retiring Randolph’s No. 50 jersey.
"“To Zach — Thank you for all the joy and magical moments too numerous to count. Thank you for the energy and excitement you brought each and every night to FedExForum. Thank you for your leadership and service. Thank you for your larger than life impact and for keeping all Memphians warm. Thank you.“While there will be a time and place to recognize your lasting impact in Memphis, starting today, as stated earlier by Controlling Owner, Robert Pera, number 50 will never be worn by any other member of the Memphis Grizzlies.”"
Randolph, a 16-year NBA veteran, joined the Grizzlies in the 2009-10 season. That very same season, he was voted to be an All-Star for the first time in his career. Though the Grizzlies didn’t make it to the playoffs that season, they made it the following year, and showed everyone in the Western Conference what gritty basketball was. As Randolph continued to improve, the team also improved, and they became perennial contenders in the playoffs for seven straight years.
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With the Grizzlies, Randolph holds averages of 17.1 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 1.8 assists. He is also the franchise leader in total rebounds with 5,612 rebounds grabbed.