The Memphis Grizzlies wanted to thank Zach Randolph for all that he has done for the franchise, so the team announced they will retire Randolph's jersey. Tim MacMahon of ESPN reported that Randolph's No. 50 will hang from the rafters.
Randolph was Memphis icon
Randolph spent eight seasons with the Grizzlies. He is currently the franchise leader in rebounds. He is second in all-time points behind current point guard, Mike Conley. Randolph was a two-time All-Star in Memphis where he averaged 16.8 points and 10.2 rebounds in his eight years.
Nicknamed "Z-Bo," Randolph changed to a reserve role this past season.
He was the team's sixth man, but still sported averages of 14.1 points and 8.2 rebounds. The points were the second lowest of his career in Memphis. The Grizzlies made the playoffs in seven straight seasons, and Randolph was a critical component of those teams. He will join Lou Turner (23), Pete Maravich (44), and Dikembe Mutombo (55), and the other players who have had their numbers retired in Memphis.
Local hand lender
Randolph was a focal part of the community as well. This past January, Randolph received the NBA Cares Community Assist Award. The award recognizes those who are passionate in the league and give back to their local community.
During Martin Luther King weekend, Randolph and his teammates served 200 families that featured adults and kids at the Memphis Union Mission.
Randolph also made a personal donation to help aid the families in terms of buying socks, shoes, gloves, and hats. The donation was roughly $20,000.
Earlier in the 2016-2017 season, Randolph participated in a holiday luncheon at a Memphis high school that served 400 holiday baskets. Randolph also participated in a shopping spree with teammate Tony Allen that bought 200 presents for kids in the Memphis Boys and Girls Club.
He also partnered with the Memphis Police Department's Community Policing Program where they gave 300 coats given to kids at a local elementary school.
Everyone wins in retired number
Randolph has proven that he was a great player and a great person in his eight years in Memphis. The Retired Number thanks Randolph for always bringing his best game every night.
It also recognizes an individual that served the community in the best way that he could.
Randolph has moved on from Memphis. He recently signed a two-year deal with the Sacramento Kings. He will most likely serve a reserve and mentor to the young players on the Kings roster. He will surely receive a standing ovation when the Kings visit Memphis next season.
