NBA: Grading first-year head coaches for the 2019-20 season

Taylor Jenkins, Memphis Grizzlies

As somewhat of an afterthought heading into the 2019-20 NBA season, even after selecting Ja Morant with the second overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, the Memphis Grizzlies were one of the biggest surprises this season in the Western Conference. For much of the season, the Grizzlies were a top 8 team in the West.

Interestingly enough, Taylor Jenkins managed to help lead this young roster to a place that not many expected them to be in. While you can argue whether or not they would’ve been able to finish the season strong and actually clinch a playoff berth, this is a team that showed fight and promise.

The Grizzlies are a great example that hard work and internal development pays off. The hope is that the duo of Taylor Jenkins and Ja Morant will continue to grow together in Memphis and that this season was just the beginning of what could be a promising start to their careers.

Grade: B