Grizzlies Pick Purdue’s Zach Edey with No. 9 Overall Selection in NBA Draft

Zach Edey, following an exceptional collegiate career, has been selected by the Memphis Grizzlies as the ninth overall pick in the NBA Draft.

The 7-foot-4 center from Toronto, known for his dominant presence, joins Memphis after a standout tenure at Purdue, where he secured consecutive national player of the year awards and propelled his team to a national championship game appearance earlier this year.

Memphis, targeting a center for their draft strategy, pursued a trade-up opportunity but settled on Edey after Donovan Clingan was selected by the Portland Trail Blazers at No. 7. Edey declared for the draft after Purdue’s postseason, foregoing his remaining college eligibility due to the pandemic.

During his final season with Purdue, Edey led the nation with 25.2 points per game and contributed 12.2 rebounds and 2.2 blocks per game. His exceptional performance earned him recognition as the first player since Ralph Sampson in the early 1980s to win consecutive national player of the year awards.

Despite initial projections placing him lower in mock drafts, Edey’s impressive showings during the NCAA tournament and draft combine elevated his draft stock significantly. The Grizzlies anticipate Edey’s continued development as he transitions to the NBA, confident in his potential based on his collegiate achievements.

Edey’s selection marks a pivotal moment for both him and the Grizzlies, who look to integrate his talents into their roster for the upcoming season.