News Summary
Jaren Jackson Jr. has extended his contract with the Memphis Grizzlies by five years for $240 million, including a player option for the final year. Coming off a stellar season with career-high averages, Jackson’s defensive prowess was key to this deal. The Grizzlies aim to secure their team by fortifying their roster around Jackson, especially after trading Desmond Bane. Jackson’s historical performance adds to his value, marking him as a crucial player for Memphis’s future.
Memphis – Jaren Jackson Jr. has signed a new five-year contract extension with the Memphis Grizzlies, worth $240 million. The agreement, which includes a player option for the final year (2029-30), enhances Jackson’s existing deal, extending it for an additional four years beyond the original expiration set for the end of the 2025-26 season.
Jackson is coming off a remarkable 2024-25 season, where he achieved career-high averages of 22.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, 2 assists, 1.5 blocks, and 1.2 steals per game. His shooting percentages were notable as well, with a field goal percentage of 48.8%, 37.5% from beyond the arc, and 78.1% at the free-throw line. This impressive performance helped him earn recognition as the 2023 Defensive Player of the Year while also securing his first All-Star selection.
As a crucial player for the Grizzlies, Jackson has demonstrated exceptional defensive abilities, often guarding multiple positions effectively on the court. In the previous season, he made history by becoming the only player to score over 1,500 points and record 100 blocks in a single season, a feat that underscores his talent and contributions to the team.
The Grizzlies made securing Jackson’s extension a priority, particularly following the recent trade of Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic. In this trade, the Grizzlies acquired Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, and several draft picks. Memphis general manager Zach Kleiman stressed the significance of locking in Jackson before he could enter unrestricted free agency next summer.
In addition to Jackson’s substantial extension, the Grizzlies also bolstered their roster by signing Santi Aldama to a three-year, $52.5 million deal and Cam Spencer to a two-year, $4.5 million contract. These moves reflect the organization’s commitment to improving the team and positioning itself for future success.
Currently, the Grizzlies are working to create the necessary cap space to officially finalize Jackson’s extension while ongoing discussions regarding a “resolution” related to Cole Anthony are in progress. Sources indicate that Memphis plans to remain proactive in the offseason, seeking outside free agent signings and exploring potential trades to further enhance their roster.
Jackson has maintained a remarkable record, having achieved at least 100 made three-pointers and 100 blocks for four consecutive seasons, marking the longest such streak in NBA history. This level of consistency highlights his versatility and impact on the game, factors that undoubtedly influenced the Grizzlies’ desire to secure him for the long term.
The overall strategic direction of the Memphis Grizzlies reflects a clear commitment to not only maintaining key players like Jackson but also strengthening their lineup for future seasons. As these developments unfold, fans and analysts alike will be closely watching the team’s moves leading into the new season and beyond.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- CBS Sports
- Wikipedia: Jaren Jackson Jr.
- ESPN
- Google Search: Jaren Jackson Jr. contract extension
- Hoops Hype
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Jaren Jackson Jr.
- New York Post
- Google News: Memphis Grizzlies Jaren Jackson Jr.
