LeBron James sparked controversy with his comments about Memphis and the Memphis Grizzlies, but NBA coaches were quick to respond. Tuomas Iisalo and Darko Rajakovic both defended the city, praising its environment and making it clear Memphis remains a respected place in the league.
LeBron James sparked backlash around the league after making controversial remarks about Memphis and the Memphis Grizzlies, but it was two NBA head coaches who quickly stepped in to defend the city.
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The Los Angeles Lakers star suggested that the Grizzlies should relocate to Nashville and admitted he would not have wanted to play in Memphis earlier in his career. The comments did not sit well with people around the league.
Memphis head coach Tuomas Iisalo strongly pushed back, sharing his own experience with the organization and the city.
“I can say from my own perspective that I have the complete opposite — 180-degree perspective on that,” Iisalo said per ESPN. “The Memphis where we have arrived less than two years ago has been very warm. Very welcoming.”
“All I can say is Memphis is the right place for the Grizzlies,” he added.
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Darko Rajakovic, now leading the Toronto Raptors, also defended Memphis after facing the Grizzlies. Having previously worked within the organization, Rajakovic made it clear he values the city and its people.
“Don’t care what the rest of the world thinks. I love the people of Memphis,” Rajakovic said.
“I love the food, I love every single time I come over here.”
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