Zach Randolph Reveals How Leaving Memphis ‘Fucked’ Him

Former NBA star Zach Randolph recently reflected on his departure from Memphis Grizzliesdescribing the emotional toll it took on him. Speaking on the Run Your Race podcast with Theo Pinson, Randolph expressed his disappointment at not re-signing with the franchise where he spent eight impressive seasons.

When asked by Pinson, “Did you want to retire Grizzly?” Randolph gave an honest answer:

“Yes. That pissed me off. When they didn’t bring me back, you know, that pissed me off – It’s my town, you know what I mean. I love that city and the people in it, so I was there and was able to (do) all the things that we could do. Leave the city behind and build something from scratch – it was hard. I was blessed to go to Sacramento with Coach (Dave) Joerger, my man. Coach Joerger, he coached in Memphis with me, so Sacramento was great and I retired after that.

Zach Randolph is considering a permanent relationship with the Grizzlies despite the difficult departure

Randolph’s connection to Memphis remains strong, despite the initial frustration he felt after leaving the organization. Pinson also asked if he was mad at the Grizzlies for not bringing him back.

“I did because you know I wanted to be there. Like I said, I’d take the player minimum because I’m so screwed with the organization and the people in town. It all worked out, you know what I mean. It’s my city, you know I’m doing a lot of stuff with the team now and it’s been a great time there. It’s a city, man,” Randolph said.

Randolph played 17 seasons in the NBA before retiring in 2019. He spent eight years with the Grizzlies, where he averaged 16.8 points, 10.2 rebounds and 2.0 assists in 551 games. His time in Memphis has had success, including two All-Star selections 2010 and 2013 and a place on the All-NBA Third Team in 2011.

Randolph was a cornerstone of the Grizzlies’ “Grit and Grind” era, helping the franchise achieve its first trip to the 2013 Western Conference Finals. That season, Memphis won a record 56 games before being eliminated in the series by the San Antonio Spurs.

In 2021, the Grizzlies honored Randolph by retiring his No. 50 jersey, cementing his legacy with the franchise. Despite his difficult departure, Randolph remains actively involved with the organization and continues to view Memphis as his home.

“Memphis is my city,” Randolph reiterated during the podcast. His comments highlight the deep connection he shares with the team and the community that has embraced him throughout his career.