In a surprising move, the Memphis Grizzlies announced Friday the dismissal of head coach Taylor Jenkins. This announcement comes as a shock with only nine regular-season games remaining and the Grizzlies holding the fifth spot in the Western Conference. Assistant coach Tuomas Iisalo will take over as interim head coach, according to reports.
Grizzlies president Zach Kleiman expressed gratitude for Jenkins` contributions over six seasons, acknowledging his role in player development and team success. He stated that this was a tough decision despite Jenkins` positive impact and wished him well.
Jenkins had been coaching the Grizzlies since the 2019-2020 season, achieving a 250-214 record and becoming the franchise`s winningest coach. He led Memphis to the playoffs three times and was the longest-tenured coach in the league without a title, excluding highly experienced coaches like Gregg Popovich and others.
Under Jenkins, the Grizzlies missed the playoffs twice, with a questionable absence last year due to Ja Morant`s injury and other key player injuries.
This season, with a healthier team, they improved significantly, reaching as high as the second seed in the West. However, recently, Memphis has struggled, with a 2-4 record in their last six games. A sideline incident between Desmond Bane and Santi Aldama also occurred. Despite these recent issues, firing a successful coach right before the playoffs is unexpected.
The reason for this sudden decision is unclear, but more information is expected soon. Memphis will finish the season with an interim head coach who has not yet been officially named.
Jasper Hawthorne