The Memphis Grizzlies took Javon Small with the 48th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft on June 26.
Small, a guard out of West Virginia, joins No. 11 overall pick Cedric Coward as players acquired in the draft this year by the Grizzlies.
Small may be listed at 6-foot-2, but he’s one of the most athletic guards in the draft. He has a vertical of more than 40 inches and put together a productive college career.
In four collegiate seasons at three schools, Small averaged at least 15 points and four assists three times. He averaged 18.6 points and 5.6 assists while shooting 35.3% on 3-pointers as a senior.
Small spent his first two seasons at East Carolina. He transferred to Oklahoma State and finished his career at West Virginia.
With Scotty Pippen Jr. and Cole Anthony backing up Ja Morant, the Grizzlies have established depth at point guard, but Small’s ability to create his own shot and get teammates involved should increase the competition.
Adding Small and Coward gives the Grizzlies two rookies who will add athleticism and defensive potential to the perimeter.
Damichael Cole is the Memphis Grizzlies beat writer for The Commercial Appeal. Contact Damichael at damichael.cole@commercialappeal.com. Follow Damichael on X, formerly known as Twitter, @DamichaelC.