In a stunning turn of events, the Memphis Grizzlies announced the firing of their head coach Taylor Jenkins on Friday, leaving the team currently possessing the Western Conference’s No. 5 seed with a 44-29 record in need of a new lead strategist just nine games prior to the 2025 NBA Playoffs.
“The Memphis Grizzlies today announced they have parted ways with head coach Taylor Jenkins,” Grizzlies PR shared via Twitter/X on Friday afternoon.
“I’m genuinely appreciative of Taylor’s contributions to this team and this city over the past six seasons,’ said Grizzlies President and GM of Basketball Operations Zach Kleiman.”
“This was a difficult decision, given the consistent and tangible development of our players and overall success under Taylor’s leadership. I wish Taylor the very best going forward.”
The NBA world was flipped upside down by the news of Jenkins’ departure, especially after he compiled a lifetime 250-214 record with the group and helped to lead the franchise to three postseason appearances throughout his tenure.
Many in the league sphere could begin to speculate that an issue must have come about behind closed doors regarding Jenkins and the team’s front office, as his truly unexpected dismissal comes just weeks before the group’s hopeful postseason run.
Jenkins will now likely be pursued as a top head coaching candidate for several prospective teams this offseason.
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