The Memphis Grizzlies made a name for themselves in the early 2010s with their grit-and-grind identity. Power forward Zach Randolph embodied that identity as well as any player from that era of Grizzlies basketball.

In eight seasons with Memphis, Randolph made the All-Star game once and averaged 16.8 points and 10.2 rebounds per game. He played a big part in the 2013 Memphis team that made the Western Conference Finals, the only such team in franchise history.

For his contributions to the team and the Memphis community, Randolph's #50 jersey was retired. Along with his teammates Tony Allen, who wore #9, his number became the first to be retired in the 27-year history of the Grizzlies. Several former teammates, opponents and others congratulated him on the honor.

Randolph received a surprise guest ahead of his big day. Marc Gasol, his teammate of eight years, showed up to congratulate him.

The Grizzlies organization got several figures from around the sports world (and rapper Yo Gotti, a Memphis native) to congratulate Z-Bo.

Several of Randolph's former teammates shared kind words about his leadership. Grizzlies star Ja Morant paid respects to the franchise icon as well.

Related NewsArticle continues below
Malik Beasley playing basketball. Pistons logo in background.
Ranking 4 best Malik Beasley free-agency destinations if he leaves Pistons
Nike Ja 2 Tiffany, Nik eJa 2 release
Nike Ja 2 ‘Tiffany’ official release details

Randolph's college coach, Tom Izzo of Michigan State, congratulated him on behalf of the university. Izzo also asked him to impart some wisdom on Jaren Jackson Jr. and Xavier Tillman, two current Memphis big men who he also coached.

 

The Grizzlies pulled out the win on Randolph's celebratory night, continuing to succeed despite a myriad of injuries.