D.J. Jeffries is gearing up to hit the hardwood for the Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA Summer League, marking a return to Memphis, where he started his college career. This opportunity for the Olive Branch native comes following his stint with Mississippi State, where he contributed to getting the team into back-to-back NCAA Tournament berths, as reported by WREG. The former Tiger's shot at the pros is a story of coming full circle—from local high school sensation to professional hopeful in the city that first put him on the map.
After lighting up the court as a 5-star recruit at Olive Branch High School, Jeffries carved out commendable averages across two college teams. According to a Local Memphis article, he notched 10.3 points and 4.8 rebounds per game at Memphis and averaged 8 points and 5.4 rebounds at Mississippi State. As the Grizzlies have yet to officially release their Summer League roster, fans are keenly awaiting to see Jeffries alongside recent draft official picks Jaylen Wells and Cam Spencer.
Jeffries' journey to the Grizzlies has been championed by his agent, Kev Martin of JCK Sports Group, who took to Instagram to break the news of his client's latest career move. The 6-foot-7 wing is expected to share the court with fellow rookies and a cadre of new talent, including GG Jackson, Trey Jemison, and Scotty Pippen Jr., who is currently on a two-way contract. "The Grizzlies Summer League run begins on July 8th in Salt Lake City", as highlighted by WREG.
The scenario is set for an intense showcase of young talent, with the Grizzlies' first-round draft pick Zach Edey deciding to forgo playing for Team Canada in the Olympics to participate in the Summer League, a development first noted by the Commercial Appeal. This decision highlights the significance the Grizzlies, and their prospects alike, place on the Summer League as a proving ground for NBA readiness—a place where the newly minted pros can quickly learn to adapt to the pace and physicality of the league.
The stage is set in Salt Lake City, followed by games in Las Vegas through July 12-22, as eyes turn to see how Jeffries' professional journey unfolds. With a local crowd behind him and a history of solid performance, the summer league is more than just a series of games for Jeffries—it's an audition in front of his hometown and a chance to cement his place where his basketball journey first gained traction.
