The Memphis Grizzlies are a perfect 3-0 to start the season, capped by a 123-112 victory over the Sacramento Kings on October 25, 2026. This winning run, which includes victories over the Golden State Warriors and Utah Jazz, has been fueled not by the team's prized rookies but by its veteran leaders. Ty Jerome and Jerami Grant have provided the steadying force for a young roster expected to struggle.
Ty Jerome was simply magnificent in the season opener against the Utah Jazz on October 21. He didn't just score; he dominated with 45 points in a 123-103 win. Jerome operated as a maestro in the pick and roll, creating shots for himself and others. He moved without the ball, cut to the rim, and pushed the pace in transition. His performance was a masterclass in offensive control.
Jerami Grant's impact has been different but just as significant. While Jerome lights up the scoreboard, Grant has used his experience and defensive versatility to anchor key stretches. He's provided timely scoring and has been a vocal leader on the floor. Their combined presence has allowed young stars like Cameron Boozer to develop without carrying the full burden immediately.
Everyone labeled this a rebuilding year for Memphis. The roster is among the youngest in the NBA, built around Rookie of the Year candidate Cameron Boozer and other future cornerstones like Zach Edey. The expectation was for a season of growing pains. Instead, the Grizzlies have jumped out to a 3-0 record, showing they can compete with established teams right now.
This early success builds invaluable confidence. Winning games, even early in the season, establishes a culture of expectation. It shows the young core what's possible when they play hard and smart. The veterans are demonstrating how to close out games, a lesson you can't fully teach in practice.
The schedule offers no rest. The Grizzlies face the Utah Jazz again on October 26, this time on the road. It's a quick turnaround and a chance to see how the team handles a back-to-back against a familiar opponent. Can Jerome replicate his opening-night magic? Will the defense hold up?
Memphis's recent form is a perfect 3-0, with wins over the Jazz, a 111-108 victory against the Golden State Warriors on October 23, and the latest triumph over Sacramento. This run has completely shifted the early-season narrative. The future is still bright with Boozer and Edey, but the present is suddenly very interesting. The veterans have made sure of that.
