Grizzlies Players Describe 'Weird Feeling' Facing Former Teammates

Jaren Jackson Jr. and other ex-Grizzlies players reunite with old squad in Utah matchup.

Feb. 21, 2026 at 4:24am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Jaren Jackson Jr., who played for the Memphis Grizzlies for over seven seasons, returned to FedExForum to face his former team as a member of the Utah Jazz. Jackson and other ex-Grizzlies players described the experience as a 'weird feeling' as they reunited with their old teammates, coaches, and fans before the game.

Why it matters

This story highlights the emotional and psychological challenges professional athletes face when playing against their former teams and teammates. The 'weird feeling' described by the players underscores the personal connections and loyalties that develop over years of playing together, even as careers move in different directions.

The details

Roughly 90 minutes before the game, Jaren Jackson Jr. took the floor at FedExForum and made his rounds, hugging familiar faces of his former Grizzlies teammates, coaches, and fans. Despite being opponents for the night, Jackson and other ex-Grizzlies players found the experience of facing their old squad to be an unusual one.

  • The game between the Utah Jazz and Memphis Grizzlies took place on February 21, 2026.

The players

Jaren Jackson Jr.

A former Grizzlies big man who played for the team for over seven seasons before joining the Utah Jazz.

Memphis Grizzlies

The NBA team that Jaren Jackson Jr. played for prior to joining the Utah Jazz.

Utah Jazz

The NBA team that Jaren Jackson Jr. currently plays for after leaving the Memphis Grizzlies.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Even being against them today and talking to them during the game, it felt weird,”

— Jaren Jackson Jr. (Commercial Appeal)

The takeaway

This story highlights the emotional bonds that form between professional athletes and their former teams, even as their careers move in different directions. The 'weird feeling' described by the players underscores the personal connections and loyalties that develop over years of playing together, and the challenges of facing off against former teammates.