The Memphis Grizzlies have signed Zach Kleiman to a long-term contract extension.

Kleiman joined the Grizzlies in 2017 and was named Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations in 2019.

The Grizzlies reached the playoffs in 2021 and were in the play-in game in 2020.

“Zach has proven to be a strong cultural leader in this organization, consistently demonstrating high-integrity, hard-work, humility and a drive for continuous improvement,” said controlling owner Robert Pera. “We have confidence in our strategy and believe it will result in an elite organization over the long-term.”

When the Memphis Grizzlies moved up from No. 8 to No. 2 in the 2019 lottery, sources tell Zach Lowe that the front office immediately knew they would select Ja Morant.

While Zion Williamson was the clear No. 1 prospect by the time of the lottery, there were various points where RJ Barrett was projected to be the top player in the draft class. But Morant had a breakout sophomore season at Murray State and entered the conversation at No. 2.

When the Grizzlies brought in Morant for a pre-draft visit, they surprised him by playing a montage of his highlights on the scoreboard set to the music of Lil Baby, who is Morant's favorite rapper.

"They did their homework," said Morant. 

Morant has become the Grizzlies franchise player, leading the team to the playoffs in his second season. 

"We have the makings of a very special player," said Taylor Jenkins.