The biggest surprise of the 2024 NBA Draft was when the Memphis Grizzlies drafted Zach Edey out of Purdue with the ninth overall pick.
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That is to say, many draft experts had the 7-foot-4 Chinese/Canadian player projected as a late first-round selection.
Even so, many fans liked the risk taken, including Grizzlies superstar guard Ja Morant, who posted a video clip from the movie 'Rush Hour 3', seemingly making fun of his new teammate's height.
Ja Morant posted this after the Grizzlies drafted Zach Edey 🤣🤣🤣 @JaMorant pic.twitter.com/Lzv70dYrsH
— Overtime (@overtime) June 27, 2024
Morant shared the scene of Chris Tucker meeting a very tall Chinese man, insinuating that it will be him when he meets Edey.
During his senior year as a Boilermakers center, Edey averaged 25.2 points (62.3% FG), 12.2 rebounds, 2.0 assists, to go with 2.0 blocks in 32.0 minutes per game.
Despite his success in college, leading Purdue to a national championship appearance this season, many scouts question if Edey can perform at the next level. Skeptics have noted that with the big man's size, he may lack mobility, and many have referenced the fact that in today's NBA, it may be an awkward fit.
All in all, Edey has proven that he is a hooper, considering the fact that he won every single one of the six National Player of the Year Awards in both the 2023 and 2024 season. Moreover, this puts him in elite company, as he is the first player since the late great Bill Walton (1972 and 1973) to sweep all National Player of the Year awards two seasons in a row.
Morant even hinted that Edey presumably will be the starting center for the team during his rookie season. To note, the Grizzlies finished with the third-worst record in the West last season (27-55), as they struggled offensively, mainly due to the fact that Morant only appeared in nine games, because of suspensions and injuries.
Edey's size (7'4"; 300 pounds) should lead him to making an immediate impact on both sides of the ball, as he has showcased post-scoring ability in the paint, and rim-protecting capability, which can certainly benefit the Grizzlies for the upcoming 2024-25 season.
Related: Zach Edey Wild Fastball Leaves Cubs Mascot Dazed And Confused
