The Memphis Grizzlies have stayed active this summer as they look to bounce back from a first-round playoff exit against the Oklahoma City Thunder. With the focus on building around Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr., Memphis continues reshaping its roster to compete in a deep Western Conference.
On Sunday, the team officially announced a deal with the Golden State Warriors that had been in the works. Memphis acquired the draft rights to Jahmai Mashack, a defensive-minded guard from Tennessee. In return, the Grizzlies sent the rights to Justinian Jessup and a top-50 protected 2032 second-round pick to Golden State.
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The Warriors moved up slightly in the second round to select Florida’s Will Richard at No. 56. Memphis ended up with Mashack, who was taken just three spots later at No. 59 overall.
Mashack brings the kind of defensive energy the Grizzlies have long valued. At 6-foot-4, the former Volunteer built his reputation as a tenacious perimeter defender, earning SEC All-Defensive Team honors last season. He averaged 6.0 points, 4.2 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.7 steals per game, offering a high-motor presence who can guard multiple positions.
While he may not have generated much buzz during the draft process, Mashack fits the mold of gritty role players Memphis has built around in recent years. His physical style, relentless on-ball pressure, and willingness to take on tough defensive assignments make him an ideal candidate for minutes in the Grizzlies’ rotation.
Mashack’s story is also one of perseverance. He overcame Guillain-Barré syndrome as a child, a rare disorder that affects the nervous system. That experience helped shape his mentality and work ethic, which now fuels his approach on the court.
The trade continues a busy offseason for Memphis, which has already made multiple moves to add youth and toughness after moving on from Desmond Bane and retooling its backcourt. Through the draft and trade market, the Grizzlies have focused on acquiring players who fit their identity as a hard-nosed, defensively focused team.
As the roster takes shape, the front office seems committed to surrounding Morant and Jackson with pieces that complement their skill sets while maintaining the physical edge the team is known for. With Mashack now in the fold, Memphis adds another young, determined piece to the puzzle.
The Grizzlies may not be finished making moves, but each step points to a clear direction: lean into defense, build around toughness, and keep pace in a stacked West.
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