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How to Identify a Memphis Grizzly

By Brendan Smart

NEW ORLEANS, LA - DECEMBER 01: Tony Allen #9 of the Memphis Grizzlies and Eric Gordon #10 of the New Orleans Pelicans dive for a loose ball during the second half of a game at the Smoothie King Center on December 1, 2015 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
NEW ORLEANS, LA - DECEMBER 01: Tony Allen #9 of the Memphis Grizzlies and Eric Gordon #10 of the New Orleans Pelicans dive for a loose ball during the second half of a game at the Smoothie King Center on December 1, 2015 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) /
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Believe it or not, Memphis is still a young franchise, but establishing a culture eight or nine years in is unheard of, but not for Memphis.

I think that every franchise has a ‘reputation’ of bring in free agents and playing a certain style of basketball. Although these styles do not last forever, the blueprint for future players hardly ever changes, and for Memphis it is simple: “Get a three point shooting Tony Allen.”

Here is an example, we have all been following the NBA Playoffs, I’m sure and saw a certain Boston Celtic guard and said “he is for sure going to play in Memphis before his career is over.” That guy? Marcus Smart. His style of play is hard nosed, never giving up on plays, and always jawing to his opponent. Does this remind you of someone?

Same can be said for Cleveland Cavaliers guard Rodney Hood. Hadn’t played in over five games, but in his first game back makes a giant impact in a losing effort the other night in Game Three.

Grizzly Culture:

The Grizzlies might be the first franchise to embody the culture of their city into their own game night in and out. Seriously, how many times has this team been counted out, or not favorites to win a series and just worked harder then their opponents to win.

It is kind of like the look Memphis has by people who do not actually live there. Outsiders, that haven’t taken one step inside of the 901 count the city out, but you know what? Those outsiders continue to be proven wrong by citizens of Memphis. Hard nosed, blue collar, and all heart, the city of Memphis always prevails. Always.

(Come for the interview, watch the whole thing for your heart.)

It’s a culture like no other, and leaves us at the TV or the game, even down 15 waiting for this team to show that fight. It is inspiring, and has established something for the coaching staff, and head of player development to show these young guys that come into this city.

How Marc Gasol and Mike Conley evolve the “Grit N’ Grind” era is yet to be seen, but for now it is safe and the league knows a “Grizzly” player when they see one, and that is in thanks to the “core four.”

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