Memphis Grizzlies

The Memphis Grizzlies are the NBA's grit-and-grind franchise, built around relentless defense, physical rebounding, and a fan base that treats hustle like a religion. Since relocating to Memphis in 2001, the Grizzlies have carved out an identity as one of the league's toughest outs, powered by homegrown stars and an underdog chip on their shoulder. Home crowds bring an energy that punches well above the market's size.

The franchise began in 1995 as the Vancouver Grizzlies, an NBA expansion team that struggled to find footing in Canada before relocating to Memphis in 2001. The 2000s "Grit and Grind" era, anchored by Zach Randolph, Marc Gasol, Mike Conley, and Tony Allen, turned the Grizzlies into a perennial playoff threat known for suffocating defense. More recently, the Ja Morant-led core has brought a faster, more explosive identity while continuing the franchise's reputation for scrappy, physical basketball. The Grizzlies have never won an NBA championship.