NBA Coaches Defend Memphis After LeBron James' Relocation Remarks

Grizzlies' home city faces backlash from Lakers star's controversial comments.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 1:58am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a basketball game in progress, with sharp planes of navy, light blue, and gold colors representing the energy and movement of the sport.A cubist interpretation of the passionate Memphis fanbase and their beloved Grizzlies, whose identity is deeply rooted in the city's unique culture.Memphis Today

Two NBA head coaches have pushed back against recent comments made by Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James, who suggested the league would be better off if the Memphis Grizzlies relocated to Nashville. The coaches defended Memphis and its unique culture, arguing the city is an integral part of the Grizzlies' identity.

Why it matters

LeBron's remarks have sparked a debate around the role of small-market teams in the NBA and whether the league is too focused on major media hubs. The Grizzlies have built a loyal fanbase in Memphis over nearly two decades, and the city's identity is closely tied to the team.

The details

In a recent interview, LeBron James stated that the NBA would be better off if the Grizzlies moved from Memphis to Nashville, citing the latter city's larger population and media market. However, Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins and Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd both pushed back on LeBron's comments, arguing that Memphis' unique culture and fanbase are integral to the team's identity.

  • LeBron James made the comments about the Grizzlies relocating on April 1, 2026.
  • Coaches Jenkins and Kidd responded to LeBron's remarks on April 4, 2026.

The players

LeBron James

A star player for the Los Angeles Lakers and one of the most influential figures in the NBA.

Taylor Jenkins

The head coach of the Memphis Grizzlies.

Jason Kidd

The head coach of the Dallas Mavericks.

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What they’re saying

“Memphis is an incredible city with a rich culture and history. The Grizzlies are an integral part of that identity, and we wouldn't want it any other way.”

— Taylor Jenkins, Head Coach, Memphis Grizzlies

“LeBron is entitled to his opinion, but I disagree. Small-market teams like the Grizzlies are what make the NBA great - they bring unique local flavor and passionate fanbases to the league.”

— Jason Kidd, Head Coach, Dallas Mavericks

What’s next

The Grizzlies will continue to play in Memphis for the foreseeable future, as the team and city have no plans to relocate. The debate over small-market teams in the NBA is likely to continue, with LeBron's comments adding fuel to the fire.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing tension between the NBA's major media markets and smaller cities that host teams. While LeBron's remarks were controversial, they reflect a broader discussion about the league's priorities and whether it values tradition and local culture over pure business metrics.