Memphis Grizzlies rookie Cedric Coward dismissed issues about hitting the so-called “rookie wall” this season. When requested if he worries fatigue may derail his first yr, Coward didn’t hesitate. “No, I solely concern God,” he mentioned, per Drew Hill of the Every day Memphian. His temporary, daring reply rapidly made headlines.
At 22 years outdated, Coward has been one of the crucial surprising vivid spots for the Grizzlies this season. He was the No. 11 decide within the 2025 NBA Draft and has began each recreation he has performed for Memphis. By his first 37 video games, Coward has averaged 14 factors, 6.6 rebounds and a pair of.9 assists, displaying scoring and playmaking capacity past his draft slot.
What Coward Says About Staying Contemporary
When addressing the rookie wall concept, Coward gave a measured view. He acknowledged that fatigue can occur to gamers, however insisted he manages his preparation rigorously. “If it comes, it comes. If it doesn’t, it doesn’t,” he mentioned. “For me, it’s one recreation at a time, one observe at a time.”
Coward defined that he tries to take care of a constant routine, specializing in habits that enable him to remain recent by the lengthy NBA season. He mentioned the best gamers are those that keep dependable night time after night time, and he needs to emulate that mindset.
He additionally accepted that not each recreation can be excellent. “There’s going to be video games the place … video games weren’t so good, video games that went very well,” Coward added. “For me, it’s simply constructing.”
Grizzlies rookie Cedric Coward was requested if he’s afraid of hitting a ‘rookie wall’…
The No. 11 decide within the draft is averaging 14, 6, and three for Memphis 😤🔥
(By way of @DrewHill_DM) pic.twitter.com/8k5VWeii1I
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) January 16, 2026
Coward’s Path to the NBA
Coward’s journey to the NBA was removed from typical. He began his school profession at Division III Willamette College, then moved on to Japanese Washington and later Washington State, the place accidents restricted his time. Regardless of setbacks, he impressed scouts sufficient for Memphis to take an opportunity on him late within the first spherical.
Simply 10 video games into the season, Coward earned a daily spot in Memphis’s rotation, and he has not relinquished it. His taking pictures effectivity and flexibility have helped the Grizzlies navigate a season marked by accidents to different key gamers.
