Greatest Grizzlies: Damon Stoudamire Impacted Memphis’ Past, Present, and Future
Prior to landing in Memphis, Damon Stoudamire had already made a name for himself in the NBA. Most knew him as “Mighty Mouse,” given his hard-nosed play combined with his short stature at 5’10” and 170 pounds. He was tough. Stoudamire played with a chip on his shoulder. Above all else, Damon was the definition of a floor general, and not only on the offensive end. He was truly a fierce competitor.
Spending 13 seasons in the league, Damon Stoudamire played a total of 118 games (receiving 107 starts) for the Memphis Grizzlies. There seasons showcased some years of continuous improvement as the team attempted to establish themselves in the city of Memphis. Damon was an excellent fit with the Grizz.
The lefty shooter was always a threat from beyond the arc (career 35.7% accuracy from three-point range). However, he was masterful with the rock in his hands. As soon as a defender would step out to contest the potential shot, a quick lob could be thrown into the air — perfectly placed for his Grizzly teammate to catch and slam through the hoop.
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Stoudamire was a prolific scorer during his days with the Portland Trail Blazers. However, he was on the decline by the time he became a member of the Grizzlies via NBA Free-Agency in 2005. As he filled the void created by the departure of Jason Williams at the point guard position, the team could not have found a better replacement. Both Stoudamire and Williams had similar playing styles. After clinching a playoff berth for the first two times in franchise history (in consecutive seasons, no less), Stouadmire’s arrival enabled the club to reach a third-straight postseason appearance.
Unfortunately for Stoudamire, and injury kept him from checking into a playoff game while donning a Memphis uniform. Had he been fully healthy and available to play, perhaps the Grizzlies would have received a postseasoan victory (or more) prior to the “Grit-‘N’-Grind” era. Regardless, Damon Stoudamire’s presence with the team as a player — and eventually in the role of Assistant Coach — stabilized the franchise. It was a successful combination.