So far the Memphis Grizzlies players have been watching Rudy Gay strut his stuff in awe, according to the Memphis Commercial Appeal.

"He's got a lot of talent," point guard Chucky Atkins said.

Gay's initial week left Damon Stoudamire sensing that "he has a chance to be very good."

"What I like," Eddie Jones said, "is that he's working his butt off every day."

Jones began reciting a story substantiated by several teammates.

With a broad smile, Jones recalled a moment Thursday when Gay emphatically stopped practice.

The 6-9 forward exploded off the dribble. He charged into the crowded lane, leaped with his right arm bent back beyond his head and slammed the basketball off the back of the rim.

"Remember back in the day when Michael Jordan went in the lane and tried to dunk but missed it?" Jones said. "It was so amazing that you still remember it. Listen, (Gay) was crazy that day."