Memphis does not scare easy. Folks see Brandon Clarke heading for another knee procedure, Jaren Jackson Jr. still working his way back, and Zach Edey sidelined before his rookie year even starts. That is the headline everywhere else. Inside this city we see something different. We see opportunity.
Training camp opened with the gym buzzing and fans glued to every update. Somebody goes down, and it is always next man up. That is not just a slogan. It is the DNA of this franchise since grit and grind first took root. Critics laugh, but that stubborn spirit keeps Memphis dangerous long after they are counted out.
Ja Morant sets the tone, no question. But look around. Santi Aldama re-signed because he believes in the direction. Young players are hungry for minutes. Veterans take pride in this uniform. To Memphis, the injuries are just part of the climb. National media will dismiss them in October and backtrack by March.
Memphis versus Everybody is not branding. It is how this city lives. The Grizzlies may be limping into camp, but this community will always bet on themselves before anyone else.
