Grizzlies’ Cedric Coward Impresses with Perfect Shooting in NBA Debut
With the 2025 NBA Draft already stirring discussions, Cedric Coward has made an impactful debut with the Memphis Grizzlies. Selected as the eleventh overall pick, Coward emerged as a promising talent from Washington State, despite concerns regarding injuries and age. His first game against the New Orleans Pelicans showcased his potential as he helped the Grizzlies secure a 128-122 victory.
Cedric Coward’s Impressive NBA Debut
In his debut, Coward played for 22 minutes, contributing 14 points, three rebounds, one assist, two steals, and one block. Most notably, he displayed perfect shooting, going 5-for-5 from the field.
Key Statistics from the Game
- Points: 14
- Rebounds: 3
- Assists: 1
- Steals: 2
- Blocks: 1
- Shooting: 5-for-5 from the field
Coward’s first NBA points came from a steal that led to a challenging and-one finish. Displaying impressive skills on both ends of the court, he scored 10 of his 14 points in the first half. His physical style of play contributed to several key stops, including a block that resulted in a basket by teammate Ja Morant, who scored 35 points in the game.
High Praise from Team Coach
Grizzlies head coach Tuomas Iisalo commended Coward’s performance, highlighting his defensive versatility against notable athletes like Zion Williamson. “Tremendous performance by Cedric,” Iisalo remarked. He added that Coward’s ability to excel against elite opponents is a rare quality.
Coward’s Potential in Memphis
At 22 years old and standing at 6-foot-6 with a 7-foot-2 wingspan, Coward is expected to grow into a significant two-way player for the Grizzlies. His potential for immediate contribution aligns with Memphis’s aspiration for a deeper playoff run, particularly after last season’s first-round exit.
During his final college season at Washington State, Coward averaged 17.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.7 blocks per game before a shoulder injury sidelined him. Despite missing the NBA Summer League, he seamlessly adapted to the Grizzlies’ system.
Building a Young Core
The Grizzlies are actively developing a promising young roster alongside Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. Other emerging talents include Jaylen Wells, Zach Edey, and GG Jackson. The future looks bright in Memphis as these players aim to elevate the franchise’s competitiveness in the NBA.
