Memphis News: Grizzlies Roster, Redbirds Rally, and Record Tiger Fundraising
- Dr. Layne McDonald
- Jul 5
- 5 min read
By Dr. Layne McDonald, Founder of Memphis News with a Purpose
The Memphis sports landscape is experiencing a significant surge of momentum this week, marked by the unveiling of a talent-heavy Grizzlies Summer League roster, a thrilling late-inning comeback by the Redbirds, and a historic $35.3 million fundraising milestone for the University of Memphis Tigers.
This "triple-threat" of positive news across our local professional and collegiate programs signals a season of renewal and investment in the Bluff City. From the arrival of top-tier NBA prospects like Cameron Boozer to the community's record-breaking financial support for student-athletes, Memphis is proving that its competitive spirit is matched only by its commitment to growth and excellence.
Grizzlies Unveil Loaded Summer League Roster : Boozer, Coward Headline New Era
The Memphis Grizzlies officially released their 2026 NBA Summer League roster on Friday, signaling the start of a new chapter for the franchise. Headlining the squad are No. 3 overall pick Cameron Boozer and 2025 first-rounder Cedric Coward. As the team moves into its post-Ja Morant era, this showcase in Salt Lake City and Las Vegas offers fans a first look at the young foundation being built at FedExForum.
The summer squad features 15 players, eight of whom saw time with Memphis during the 2025-26 season. While rookie Cam Boozer is the focal point, the roster also includes 2025 first-round pick Karim Lopez and returning guard Javon Small. Unfortunately, second-round pick Richie Saunders will miss the action as he recovers from a torn ACL. For more on how the Grizzlies are navigating this transition, you can explore our Memphis News commentary.
What This Means for the Grizzlies' Future
With the trade of Ja Morant to Portland now finalized, the Grizzlies are banking on a combination of high-ceiling youth and established depth. Boozer has already expressed optimism about the direction of the franchise, joining a core that includes Zach Edey, Jerami Grant, and Kris Murray. This summer league is more than just a series of exhibition games; it is the laboratory where the chemistry of the "New Memphis" will be tested.
Grizzlies Summer League Schedule
July 4: vs. Oklahoma City Thunder (Salt Lake City)
July 6: vs. Utah Jazz (Salt Lake City)
July 7: vs. Atlanta Hawks (Salt Lake City)
July 10: vs. Chicago Bulls (Las Vegas)
Redbirds Rally Past Charlotte in Comeback Win : Báez Launches 28th Homer
The Memphis Redbirds provided a masterclass in perseverance on Friday night at AutoZone Park. Facing a three-run deficit in the seventh inning against the Charlotte Knights, the Redbirds stormed back to secure an 8-6 victory. This marked the team's largest comeback win of the 2026 season, fueled by Joshua Báez’s staggering 28th home run of the year.
The atmosphere at AutoZone Park was electric as Memphis erased the 6-3 lead. Ramon Mendoza tied the game with a clutch RBI double, and pinch-hitter Noah Mendlinger delivered the decisive blow with a go-ahead triple in the eighth inning. Reliever Scott Blewett closed the door in the ninth to earn his sixth save of the season.
Key Redbirds Performances
Joshua Báez: 3-for-3, 2 HR, 3 RBI
Noah Mendlinger: Go-ahead triple (pinch-hit)
Scott Blewett: Perfect 9th inning for the save
Memphis Athletics Sets Record Fundraising Year : $35.3 Million Raised
The University of Memphis Athletics department announced a record-breaking $35.3 million in gifts and commitments for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. This represents a 9% increase over the previous record, a clear indicator of the community's deep-seated belief in the Tigers' future.
More than 5,500 individual gifts propelled the department to this milestone. A significant portion of the momentum comes from the $50 million Smith Family Match Challenge, which is funding essential renovations for the Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium. Under the leadership of Athletic Director Ed Scott, the Tigers are building a financial foundation that ensures Memphis remains a powerhouse in football, basketball, and Olympic sports.
By the Numbers
$35.3 Million: Total raised this fiscal year.
9: Principal gifts exceeding $1 million.
$42.15 Million: Current total raised toward the $50M stadium match challenge.
Christian Takeaway
In the world of sports, we often focus on the scoreboard, but the real story is often found in the preparation, the generosity, and the resilience of the people involved. The Grizzlies’ transition reminds us that while seasons change, God remains constant. Ecclesiastes 3:1 tells us, "To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven." Whether we are entering a "rebuilding" phase in our personal lives or celebrating a "record year," our focus should remain on working with all our heart for the Lord (Colossians 3:23).
The Redbirds' comeback is a beautiful illustration of faith in action: staying the course even when the odds seem stacked against you. The record-breaking generosity shown to the Tigers reflects the biblical principle that a generous person will prosper (Proverbs 11:25). When we invest in our community and our youth, we are planting seeds for a harvest we may not even see yet.
How to Pray and Engage
As we reflect on these stories, let us take action both spiritually and practically:
Pray for our athletes: Pray for the health and safety of the Grizzlies' young roster and the Redbirds players. Ask for protection over their careers and for wisdom as they navigate the pressures of professional sports.
Pray for the Tigers' leadership: Pray for Athletic Director Ed Scott and the University administration as they steward these record-breaking funds to benefit student-athletes and the city at large.
Engage locally: Consider attending a Redbirds game or supporting a local youth sports program. Being present in these community spaces allows us to be "salt and light" in our city.
Practice generosity: Reflect on how you can apply the "Tigers' Spirit" of giving in your own church or local neighborhood.
Peacemaker's Perspective
In a city as passionate as Memphis, sports can sometimes lead to heated debates: whether it's about trades, coaching decisions, or stadium funding. However, we are called to be peacemakers (Matthew 5:9). A Christian peacemaker looks at the Grizzlies' roster change not with anxiety or divisiveness, but with hope and a spirit of support. We celebrate the Tigers' fundraising success not just as a financial win, but as a victory for the education and development of young people in our city. Let our conversations about Memphis sports be marked by grace and a desire to see our neighbors: and our teams: flourish.
FAQ : Memphis Sports Wrap
Q: Will Cam Boozer play in all summer league games? A: Typically, top draft picks like Boozer see limited minutes to manage their workload. He is expected to play in multiple games, particularly during the Las Vegas showcase, but he may not appear in every scheduled contest.
Q: What is the significance of the $35.3 million for the Tigers? A: This record-breaking amount allows the University to move forward with critical renovations to the Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium and provides essential resources for student-athlete scholarships and facilities.
Q: Where can I watch the Grizzlies Summer League games? A: Games will be broadcast on various ESPN platforms and can be heard locally on 92.9 FM ESPN.
Q: When is the next Redbirds home game? A: The Redbirds continue their homestand at AutoZone Park against Charlotte this Saturday at 7:05 PM before beginning a series against Nashville.
Call to Action: Support our local teams this week! Whether you’re watching the Grizzlies opener on July 4th or heading to AutoZone Park, share your favorite sports moments with us on social media using #MemphisNewsWithAPurpose. Let’s keep the momentum going!
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