Tue Oct 15 00:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Giant Leap: Purdue’s Zach Edey Adjusts to Life as a Memphis Grizzly
**INDIANAPOLIS** – Former Purdue standout Zach Edey, a towering 7’4″, 300-pound center, is finding his footing in the NBA, but it’s not without its challenges. The Grizzlies, who drafted him 9th overall, have a more modern, space-oriented offense than the post-heavy style Edey thrived in at Purdue.
“People on this team haven’t really played with a post-up center,” Edey said after the Grizzlies’ preseason game against the Pacers in Indianapolis. “It’s a different type of pass,” he explained, highlighting the unique skills needed to get him the ball in the low post.
While Edey won’t be the primary scoring option he was in college, the Grizzlies are working to incorporate his size and strength into their offense. He’s expanding his game, focusing on ball screen actions and learning to operate effectively outside the paint.
“At Purdue I would always run straight to the rim,” Edey said. “Here, sometimes I gotta space to the perimeter.”
Despite these adjustments, Edey has shown promise in the preseason, averaging 10.3 points, 6.7 rebounds and 1.7 blocks per game in limited minutes. His defense, a concern coming into the league, has been effective in drop coverage, forcing opponents to shoot over him.
Head Coach Taylor Jenkins is impressed with Edey’s work ethic and ability to learn. “He’s a great learner,” Jenkins said. “He’s obviously ultra-competitive. He’s finding his footing right now.”
The Grizzlies are confident that Edey’s unique skillset will translate into success in the NBA. While his role may be different than it was in college, Edey is eager to make his mark. “Just game-by-game, getting more confident in the offense,” he said. “Just finding my rhythm, finding my flow, finding out how to assert myself in the offense. That’s my big thing.”
Edey’s journey in the NBA has only just begun, but his size, talent, and willingness to adapt suggest a bright future in Memphis.
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