The Memphis Grizzlies open training camp on September 29th with several starting jobs up for grabs, a critical process for a team aiming to move past a difficult end to last season. The Grizzlies finished their previous campaign with a 132-101 loss to the Houston Rockets on April 13, 2026, part of a five-game losing skid. Head coach Taylor Jenkins will use the intense sessions at Belmont University to evaluate a deep roster filled with new faces and returning players vying for bigger roles.
Replacing Ja Morant is the team's most pressing question. The competition appears to be between Ty Jerome and Scotty Pippen Jr., two guards with contrasting styles. Jerome is an offensive creator who can score in bursts and set up teammates. Pippen Jr. Brings a defensive mindset and scoring talent, though he has struggled with turnovers. Jenkins's preference will shape the offense. Does he want Jerome's shooting and playmaking from the tip, or Pippen's perimeter defense? The starter will likely see more minutes, but both could share the court in late-game situations.
A fascinating battle is developing on the wing. Jaylen Wells, a 2024 second-round pick, earned a starting role last season and never gave it up. He played solid basketball but is still developing as a primary creator. The Grizzlies acquired veteran forward Jerami Grant in the Morant trade. Grant offers twelve seasons of NBA experience and proven scoring. With Cedric Coward, Cam Boozer, and Zach Edey expected to start, the final spot may be between Wells and Grant. It's a classic choice between youthful defense and veteran offense. Grant has spent more time at power forward, which adds another wrinkle to the evaluation.
While Cam Boozer is locked in as the starter, his backup is a major question. The Grizzlies traded not only Jaren Jackson Jr. But also his primary reserve, Santi Aldama. This leaves a significant hole in the frontcourt rotation. Memphis will likely establish a ten-man rotation early. The player who loses the starting point guard battle could remain in the mix here. So could the loser of the Wells-Grant competition. Cam Spencer is coming off a strong season and may also be in consideration for backcourt minutes. This camp battle will be about finding reliable depth behind a rookie starter.
The team lost its final five games of last season, including that 132-101 defeat in Houston. You can review the full schedule and track the team's progress on our schedule page. Training camp is the first step to turning the page. Each position battle will influence the team's identity and its ability to compete in a tough Western Conference. The intensity in Nashville will reveal which players are ready to step up.
