Jenkins becomes the Grizzlies' all-time winningest coach with 215 wins
Taylor Jenkins has officially climbed to the pinnacle of the Memphis Grizzlies coaching legacy.
With a 117-111 win over the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday night, Jenkins, now in his sixth season as head coach, secured his 215th victory. This achievement places him ahead of Lionel Hollins, making Jenkins the winningest coach in franchise history.
“It’s an unbelievable honor to be among the company of so many great coaches that have come before me,” Jenkins shared after celebrating with his team in the locker room. “I always talk about the unbelievable responsibility to be the coach of this franchise. It’s a privilege and an honor.”
The Grizzlies’ coaching lineage boasts names like Hubie Brown, Mike Fratello, Hollins, and J.B. Bickerstaff, who now leads the Detroit Pistons.
Before joining Memphis in June 2019, Jenkins gained experience with the San Antonio Spurs, Atlanta Hawks, and Milwaukee Bucks in various coaching roles. Under his leadership, the Grizzlies made it to the Western Conference playoffs three consecutive seasons, though injuries halted their momentum last year.
Taylor Jenkins approached Wednesday’s postgame routine like any other, ready to fire up the team and deliver his usual speech. But the players had different plans—this wasn’t just another win.
As Jenkins entered the locker room, his players intercepted him, eager to mark the momentous occasion of their coach becoming the Grizzlies’ all-time winningest leader after their victory against the 76ers.
Jaren Jackson Jr., Santi Aldama, Luke Kennard, and others drenched Jenkins in water while celebrating. Scotty Pippen Jr. joined in with some Gatorade, and Desmond Bane briefly considered tossing his smoothie before deciding against it.
“That would’ve been a little too disrespectful,” Bane joked with a laugh.
The players embraced the opportunity to honor Jenkins, whom they view as a humble and selfless leader.
Need proof? When asked if his players were planning to treat him to dinner in celebration, Jenkins turned the tables, saying he’d be the one taking them out.
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Image: © Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
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