The Memphis Grizzlies are making some strategic changes to their roster, starting with their center positions. As confirmed by the team, they've signed Jay Huff, a 7-foot-1 center, to a two-way deal. As reported by WREG, the Grizzlies have waived fellow center Trey Jemison to clear the way for Huff.
Huff's journey has not been one of a high-profile draftee. Going undrafted out of Virginia in 2021, he has bounced around the league and its developmental arms. Despite his NBA tenure being described as modest with averages of 2.4 points and 1.2 rebounds in 5.3 minutes per game, his G League performance has been striking. Last season, for instance, he posted an impressive 19.1 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 3.6 blocks per game for the Grand Rapids Gold. His shooting percentages were equally notable – 57.3 percent from the field and 39.0 percent from the three-point line, as noted by Local Memphis.
The Grizzlies' latest signee also has a championship pedigree. Before going pro, Huff was on the Virginia Cavaliers' 2019 NCAA championship team; this kind of experience could prove to be a valuable asset to the Grizzlies. Those in the know follow his performances, like at the Las Vegas Summer League, where he impressed with averages of 16.8 points and 2.2 blocks per game playing for the Magic.
On the other hand, Trey Jemison finds himself looking for a new opportunity. According to Hoops Rumors, the 24-year-old went unselected in the 2024 NBA Draft but secured a 10-day contract with the Memphis Grizzlies in January, which led to a two-way deal. Despite making the most of his stint by averaging 6.8 points and 5.4 rebounds and delivering a career-high 24 points, the Grizzlies have decided to part ways with the young center, signaling a potentially fresh start for both players.
