Jaren Jackson Jr. to Wear No. 8 as Part of Grizzlies “Fresh Start”
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MEMPHIS — Grizzlies forward Jaren Jackson Jr. will trade his long-time No. 13 jersey for No. 8 when the team opens training camp, the eighth-year veteran confirmed on August 13.
Jackson said the switch honors his father, who wore No. 8 during part of his own NBA career, and symbolizes a new beginning. “I’m connected with 8 in a real way,” he explained. “It reaches into the territory of new beginnings. It’s infinite.”
The uniform change comes as Memphis overhauls its roster and staff after being swept by Oklahoma City in last season’s first round. New head coach Tuomas Iisalo, hired late last year to replace Taylor Jenkins, will guide the club without shooting guard Desmond Bane, traded to Orlando in June.
Jackson acknowledged the emotional impact of Bane’s departure but called it “a business.” Savings from the deal helped Memphis renegotiate and extend Jackson’s contract to five years and $240 million, securing him as a franchise cornerstone.
With Bane gone, Jackson said he intends to assume a larger leadership role. “You’re going to get closer to your prime, and things are going to change for you,” he noted. “I feel like this is a good starting point for a whole new journey.”
The 6-foot-11 All-Star is coming off career-best numbers: 22.2 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.5 blocks over 74 games, while shooting 48.8 percent from the field and 37.5 percent from beyond the arc. He was named to the All-Star Game for a second time and earned Second Team All-Defense honors.
Jackson believes his example will set the tone for a younger roster. “Whoever’s in the locker room is in your foxhole,” he said. “What are your habits? What are your techniques? Are you willing to share? Are you willing to talk? Who are the leaders?”
Source: Hoops Rumors
