Jaren Jackson Jr. Honored with Emotional Memphis Grizzlies Tribute

Grizzlies fans cheer on former star player during his first return to FedExForum since trade to Utah Jazz

Feb. 21, 2026 at 1:24am

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Jaren Jackson Jr. became emotional as the Memphis Grizzlies played a heartfelt tribute video honoring the former star player during their recent game against the Utah Jazz. The tribute came shortly after the first quarter, with Jackson Jr.'s family present to witness the moment. This marked Jackson Jr.'s first return to Memphis since being traded to the Jazz earlier this season in a major eight-player deal.

Why it matters

Jackson Jr. was a foundational player for the Grizzlies, helping the team tie their franchise record for most regular-season wins in 2021-22. His departure was a significant shift for the organization and its passionate fan base, underscoring his importance to the team's success.

The details

The tribute video was played amidst an exciting game atmosphere, as the Grizzlies have a busy season ahead with upcoming matches against teams like the Miami Heat, Sacramento Kings, and Golden State Warriors. Jackson Jr. was part of a major trade deadline deal that sent him, John Konchar, Jock Landale, and Vince Williams Jr. to the Utah Jazz in exchange for Walter Clayton Jr., Kyle Anderson, Taylor Hendricks, Georges Niang, and three first-round draft picks.

  • The tribute video was played shortly after the first quarter in the Grizzlies' Friday game against the Utah Jazz.
  • Jackson Jr. has been ruled out for the rest of the season due to a localized PVNS growth in his left knee.

The players

Jaren Jackson Jr.

A former star player for the Memphis Grizzlies who was recently traded to the Utah Jazz. He was honored with an emotional tribute video during his first return to FedExForum since the trade.

Memphis Grizzlies

An NBA team that played a heartfelt tribute video for former player Jaren Jackson Jr. during their recent game against the Utah Jazz.

Utah Jazz

The NBA team that acquired Jaren Jackson Jr. in a major eight-player trade with the Memphis Grizzlies at the trade deadline.

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The takeaway

The emotional tribute to Jaren Jackson Jr. during his first return to Memphis since being traded highlights the impact he had on the Grizzlies' success and the strong connection he built with the team's passionate fan base. Despite the trade, Jackson Jr.'s legacy in Memphis will endure as the Grizzlies continue their exciting season ahead.