In a recent interview, one of the most iconic Memphis Grizzlies of all-time gave praise to rookie Jaren Jackson Jr.
On Tuesday, Grind City Media‘s Chris Vernon hosted his routine radio show, and from it, a few gems were created relative to the Memphis Grizzlies. This was largely in part to his special guest.
The name? It was none other than “The Grindfather,” Tony Allen himself — the heart and soul of the Grizzlies for seven seasons.
Whenever Tony speaks — especially with Vernon on the radio — excellent stories and quotes are a guarantee, no matter the year. This week, one particular segment really stood out. The topic was on Memphis’ first round Draft pick, Jaren Jackson Jr. View it directly below:
Tony Allen (@aa000G9 ) was in-studio today on the @ChrisVernonShow.
— Grind City Media (@grindcitymedia) January 8, 2019
The Grindfather talks about his first encounter with @memgrizz rook @jarenjacksonjr. #CVDirect pic.twitter.com/BND5aJLr0P
Allen provided the best days this Memphis Grizzlies franchise has seen. Though he was not able to deliver an NBA World Championship to Beale Street like he did during his days with the Boston Celtics, he is clearly excited for Memphis’ future. He knows Jaren Jackson Jr. is the real deal; therefore, greener pastures lie ahead as the squad is in good hands.
It is even more assuring to hear Zach Randolph lending the nod of approval to “Triple-J.” Especially with “Z-Bo” being a bully in the frontcourt, it is good news. Surely Randolph enjoys the fact that Jaren is a Michigan State product, too, just like himself.
It is nice to see the national media give some credit to Jackson Jr. through the first 41 regular season games, but it is even better when actual players — some of the Grizzlies’ greats — are left impressed. The hype is real, and though it is somewhat hard to believe, Memphis’ Front Office made a very successful selection at the NBA Draft.
As the Grizzlies have slipped out of playoff contention — though not entirely out of the picture just yet — this could lead to the Memphis Grizzlies’ coaching staff giving extended minutes and touches to Jaren Jackson Jr. The more they can develop their youth today, the better off they will be in one, two, and three years from now.