Grizzlies Fans Devastated by Jaren Jackson Jr. Trade to Jazz

Beloved player and fan favorite departs Memphis in blockbuster deal

Feb. 3, 2026 at 8:07pm

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Memphis Grizzlies fans are expressing heartbreak and disappointment over the trade of star player Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Utah Jazz. Jackson had been with the Grizzlies for seven seasons and was a fan favorite known for his defensive prowess and community engagement. Longtime season ticket holder Kipp Holmes said the trade was "beyond my understanding" given Jackson's talent and connection to the city.

Why it matters

The trade of Jaren Jackson Jr. is a major blow to the Grizzlies franchise and their loyal fanbase. Jackson was a key part of the team's recent success and his departure raises questions about the team's long-term direction and commitment to building around their young core.

The details

In a blockbuster deal, the Grizzlies traded Jaren Jackson Jr. along with three other players to the Utah Jazz. Jackson was a beloved figure in Memphis, known for his defensive skills, positive attitude, and engagement with the community. Fans like Kipp Holmes, a 25-year season ticket holder, are devastated to see him go, with Holmes recounting a touching story of Jackson signing her daughter's jersey after a game.

  • On February 3, 2026, the Memphis Grizzlies traded Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Utah Jazz.
  • On February 2, 2026, Jackson had a 30-point performance in a Grizzlies win over the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The players

Jaren Jackson Jr.

A star player for the Memphis Grizzlies for the past seven seasons, known for his defensive skills, positive attitude, and community engagement.

Kipp Holmes

A longtime Grizzlies season ticket holder who has been a devoted fan of the team for 25 years.

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What they’re saying

“Heartbreaking,”

— Kipp Holmes, Grizzlies fan

“I can see some of the trade, but Jaren Jackson Junior? Out of all people? The one who's never injured, plays his heart out, he's given to this city, why they would get rid of somebody, someone of his caliber, is beyond my understanding.”

— Kipp Holmes, Grizzlies fan

“Jaren was great. Defensive player of the year was something else. Always had a good attitude, seemed like a good steward of the city, and that's what you're looking for... Looking at the team as a whole, I guess, you know, he was the good face forward for the past little bit.”

— David Driscoll, Grizzlies fan

“I think that's not good. We're going to need him for the Grizzlies. Yeah, so, that's not good.”

— Veronica Smith, Grizzlies fan

What’s next

The Grizzlies will face Jackson's new team, the Utah Jazz, at home on February 20, giving fans a chance to see their former star player in action again.

The takeaway

The trade of Jaren Jackson Jr. is a major blow to the Memphis Grizzlies and their loyal fanbase, who have embraced the young star as a key part of the team's recent success and a positive ambassador for the city. The move raises questions about the franchise's long-term direction and commitment to building around their core players.