Grizzlies' Cedric Coward Reflects on 'Special' Euro Trip, Unfazed by World Cup

Rookie says Berlin experience was eye-opening, won't let soccer distract from offseason plans

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Memphis Grizzlies rookie Cedric Coward opened up about his experience playing in the team's midseason game in Berlin, calling it a "special" opportunity to connect with international fans and experience a new culture. Despite the physical toll of the extra travel, Coward said the trip allowed him to soak in the local food, language, and energy of being overseas. Looking ahead, Coward said the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup won't distract him from his offseason workout regimen, as he aims to take his game to the next level and potentially help the NBA grow its global footprint like soccer has.

Why it matters

The NBA's push to expand its international presence, including playing regular season games abroad, is a strategic move to grow the sport's worldwide popularity and appeal. Coward's positive experience in Berlin highlights how these overseas trips can benefit young players by exposing them to new cultures and fan bases, which could pay dividends as the league continues to globalize.

The details

Coward, a rookie with the Grizzlies, was part of the team that traveled to Berlin earlier this season to play in the NBA's first-ever regular season game in Germany. Despite the physical toll of the extra travel, Coward said the experience was "super special," allowing him to connect with fans overseas and try new foods and experience the local culture. The young player also noted that while he's not a big soccer fan, he recognizes the global appeal of the sport and hopes basketball can achieve a similar level of worldwide relevance.

  • The Grizzlies played the NBA's first regular season game in Berlin in February 2026.
  • The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to take place this summer.

The players

Cedric Coward

A rookie with the Memphis Grizzlies who recently participated in the team's midseason game in Berlin, the first-ever NBA regular season game held in Germany.

Ja Morant

The Grizzlies' star player who is currently sidelined with an injury, paving the way for more playing time for rookie Cedric Coward.

Tuomas Iisalo

The head coach of the Memphis Grizzlies, who led the team on their trip to Berlin.

Jaren Jackson Jr.

A former Grizzlies player who recently departed the team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It was cool. It was definitely a special experience. To be able to be the first game in Berlin, that was super special, especially as a rookie.”

— Cedric Coward (ClutchPoints)

“I'm used to it because we have a lot of international players. I played in college with teammates that were from Germany and Serbia, but at the same time, going there and experiencing their culture, being in their world, is definitely something special. You get to try new foods, you get to hear a new language all the time, see the way people move around, and have those road experiences you may not get here in the States.”

— Cedric Coward (ClutchPoints)

“I don't really watch soccer like that. I'm not a huge soccer fan, but at the same time, to see how big soccer is around the world, it's exciting. Hopefully, basketball can grow the same way worldwide and be like soccer is.”

— Cedric Coward (ClutchPoints)

What’s next

Coward will look to build on his increased playing time and make the NBA All-Rookie team, as the Grizzlies miss the playoffs this season with Ja Morant sidelined. He'll also aim to continue growing the global reach of the NBA through his international experiences.

The takeaway

Cedric Coward's positive experience playing in the NBA's first regular season game in Berlin highlights how the league's international expansion efforts can benefit young players by exposing them to new cultures and fan bases. Despite the physical toll, Coward embraced the opportunity, and he remains focused on his own development rather than being distracted by the upcoming World Cup, underscoring his commitment to maximizing his potential.