Jackson Jr. returned to Memphis for the first time since the Grizzlies-Jazz blockbuster trade.
Jaren Jackson Jr. shed some tears as he received a heartwarming video tribute from the Memphis Grizzlies.
Memphis Grizzlies / Schedule
Returning to the FedExForum for the first time since his shocking departure in the past NBA trade deadline, Jackson Jr. obtained ovation and cheers from the Memphis crowd and his former teammates.
The Grizzlies played the video tribute right after the first quarter of their Friday matchup against the Utah Jazz. Jackson Jr.'s family was also in attendance.
The deal served as perhaps the most stunning at this season's trade deadline.
Jackson Jr. didn't play on Friday as he was recently diagnosed with a localized PVNS growth in his left knee and is expected to miss the remainder of the season.
He only played three games wearing a Jazz uniform.
The No. 4 overall pick of the 2018 NBA Draft, Jackson Jr. served as one of the franchise's cornerstones of the Grizzlies organization. The 2023 NBA Defensive Player of the Year is a two-time All-Star, three-time All-Defensive member and a two-time blocks champion.
With Jackson Jr., the Grizzlies tied the franchise's regular-season record with 56 wins back in the 2021-22 season.
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