Two NBA head coaches respond to LeBron James’ comment regarding Memphis.
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Two NBA head coaches supported Memphis and its culture on Friday in response to comments made by Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James, who suggested that the Grizzlies should consider relocating to Nashville.
Current Grizzlies head coach Tuomas Iisalo and Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic, who previously served as an assistant in Memphis, expressed that their experiences contradicted James’ remarks made in a “Bob Does Sports” YouTube video earlier this week.
James criticized Memphis, suggesting that the NBA would benefit if the Grizzlies moved 200 miles east to Nashville, a city that hosts Vanderbilt University, NASCAR events, and the NHL’s Predators. He even mentioned that he might have chosen not to play in Memphis had the Grizzlies secured the first pick in the 2003 draft.
“From my perspective, I have a completely opposite — 180-degree perspective on that,” Iisalo stated. “The Memphis we arrived in less than two years ago has been incredibly warm and welcoming.”
Rajakovic remarked: “I don’t care what others think. I appreciate the people of Memphis. I enjoy the food. I look forward to every visit here.”
James’ critique included comments about NBA players having limited activities when visiting Memphis for games.
“In Memphis on a f—ing random ass Thursday,” James said. “I’m not the first person to mention this in the NBA; we all think, ‘You guys need to move. Just go to Nashville.’
The Raptors arrived in Memphis a day prior to Friday night’s game and took the opportunity to visit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which provides treatment for childhood cancer patients at no cost to families. Rajakovic described the visit as inspiring, with players expressing gratitude for the chance to meet patients.
The coaches of the Grizzlies and Raptors have brief connections to Memphis, with Iisalo in his second season and first as head coach. Iisalo noted that Memphis boasts one of the NBA’s most dedicated fan bases, with the city strongly supporting its team.
“All I can say is Memphis is the right place for the Grizzlies,” Iisalo concluded.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
