The Memphis Grizzlies finally found their backup point guard
Former Memphis Grizzlies Head Coach David Fizdale believed in Andrew Harrison when many fans and bloggers did not (including myself). Now, Harrison is proving us all wrong.
It’s five o’clock at FedEx Forum, tip-off is at seven, and emerging from the tunnel comes Harrison and Assistant Coach Adam Mazarei. The two wait for the two big men, Ivan Rabb and Brice Johnson to get through with a quick two-on-two game with some assistants. Harrison looks calm, even laughing at Johnson and Rabb for going hard in their game. Happy, something Harrison has been working on for the last year and a half.
Looking back to Fizdale’s first season — and his first roster — it all really started with the Summer League team. The roster included Harrison, and the fans had high praise for Harrison throughout that Summer League run. It’s crazy to look back at how far he has come, but for Harrison it has been more of adjusting to the NBA climate.
He has always had the talent, right? His college highlights tell me that, but with the NBA, there comes a new climate. The obvious differences are deeper 3-point shots and better competition every night (even against lottery teams).
Andrew Harrison, now in his second season in the NBA, has finally found his niche with the Memphis Grizzlies. He might even be the backup point guard the team has been searching for.
Backup Point Guard?
Since the Grizzlies are preparing for next season, I like to look ahead to how the guys currently would fit on next season’s roster.
Andrew Harrison would fit in a spot the Grizzlies have struggled with for years: the backup point guard position. He has matured enough to take the game over, while Conley is on the bench next season, as he’s learning the game more and more every day. He knows that he’s not the quickest or strongest guard on the court a lot of the time, but that has made him smarter.
Harrison’s Maturity
Last season, you would find Harrison strolling outside of a huddle during a timeout, but this season is different. He calls himself out and steps up when needed. This season has been a blessing for numerous reasons. For Harrison, being the second or third option on offense at times has helped him grow.
His 3-point and field goal percentages have risen, and this year’s team looks better when he is on the court.
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In last Friday’s game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Grizzlies had great ball movement in the first quarter, but slowly fell apart throughout the second quarter and could never recover. During that game in particular, Harrison has openly been critical of his game and is keeping himself accountable. His maturity has been a major key to his progression.
Watching Harrison continue his growth in the NBA in a lost season with a roster full of youth has been fun to watch. His leadership and growth in maturity will be huge next season when Memphis is returning back to playoff form.