In a surprising twist for the NBA season, the Memphis Grizzlies have brought 40-year-old Taj Gibson out of retirement. This veteran big man, known for his leadership and professionalism, is joining the Grizzlies for his 17th season in the league.
Gibson last played on April 13 against the Boston Celtics and had been unsigned since. His return comes at a time when the Grizzlies are struggling, having lost seven of their last eight games and seemingly headed for a lottery pick.
The Grizzlies, a young team in need of veteran presence, have added Gibson following Kyle Anderson's buyout and move to Minnesota. While Gibson might not see significant playing time, given his 11.1 minutes per game with the Charlotte Hornets last season, he could fill in temporarily as Zach Edey, Brandon Clarke, and Santi Aldama recover from injuries. Despite their current shortage of size, Gibson is unlikely to become a key rotation player.
This move aligns with the Grizzlies' focus on rebuilding and preparing for the promising 2026 NBA Draft. Gibson's experience, having played over 1,000 NBA games and earning a spot on the NBA All-Rookie Team in 2010, could be invaluable for a roster filled with players on their first contracts. His career averages of 8.4 points, 5.7 rebounds, and a block per game highlight a solid, though past-prime, NBA journey.
While the Grizzlies might not be aiming for victories this season, Gibson's veteran leadership could play a crucial role in mentoring the young squad. As the season unfolds, it will be intriguing to see how Gibson's experience impacts the team during this transitional phase.