JUST GRIZZLIES with Kelcey Wright Johnson: Recent Episodes
Grind City Media
A weekly podcast taking you behind the scenes of the Memphis Grizzlies with interviews, analysis and never-before-heard stories. Join Kelcey and special guests from around the NBA including players, coaches, other Grind City Media team members and more as we discuss everything surrounding our Next Gen Grizz. Liven up your Thursday morning commute by tuning into Just Grizzlies.
On this week's episode of the Just Grizzlies podcast, host KJ is joined by Sam Young. The former Grizzlies forward reminisces about his time in Memphis and talks about his last trip here to spend time with some old teammates. The duo discuss creating the Grit and Grind identify within the franchise and much more.
On this week's episode of Just Grizzlies with Kelcey Wright Johnson, she is joined by former Grizzlies shooting guard Bonzi Wells. The duo discuss how Bonzi overcame an untrue and unfair perception of him, and how that affected him and his family's mental health. He also reminisces about his time playing in Memphis, and some of his former teammates, like Lorenzen Wright. Bonzi also opens up about why he's back living in Memphis, what he's up to now, and much more.
On this week's episode, Kelcey is joined by Quincy Pondexter - a key member of the original grit and grind era. He talks about what he loved about the city of Memphis, what he learned and how he grew as a person, in his time here. He talks about Z-bo and Marc, he reflects on Kobe Bryants legacy and much more. Oh, and don't call him Coach Quincy!
On this week's episode of Just Grizzlies, KJ is joined by Memphis legend Elliot Perry as they sit back and reflect on last season for the Grizzlies. Elliot breaks down why this team is special to the city, as well as the good, the bad and the ugly when it comes to putting a city on the team's back. He discusses his relationship with Charles Barkley, his time in the league, how he continues to better his community and tons more.
On this week's episode, Kelcey Wright Johnson is joined by two-way rookie Kenneth Lofton Jr. The duo met up in Las Vegas in the middle of Summer League to discuss draft night, his mentality as he enters the league, why he feels people have doubted him for his whole life, and much more. He also plays a game that helps fans get to know him and his summer league teammates a bit better.
On this week's episode of Just Grizzlies, Kelcey is joined by the four players the Grizzlies picked up on draft night; Jake LaRavia, David Roddy, Kennedy Chandler and Vince Williams Jr. In a couple random and all-over-the-place conversations about tattoos, trash talking, inspirations, failures and much more, KJ helps fans get to know the new guys in Beale Street blue.
On this week's episode of Just Grizzlies, Kelcey Wright Johnson is joined by Matt Barnes. The duo reflect back on the 2015-16 Grizzlies season; the heart of the Grit and Grind era. Matt walks KJ through some of his biggest games and plays as a member of the Grizzlies, and then takes a stroll down memory lane and discusses the championship run he made before he retired as Warrior.
In this week's episode of Just Grizzlies, host Kelcey Wright Johnson is joined by former Grizzlies guard Greivis Vásquez. The duo relive the 2010 draft, as well as the 2010-11 playoff push in Memphis. Vásquez opens up about his rookie year, his teammates, the city and much more.
On this week's episode of Just Grizzlies, Kelcey is joined by Ziaire Williams. The rookie breaks down his expectations for the Grizzlies' postseason run and discussed why this Memphis team continues to be overlooked. Kelcey asks him about his role on the team as he navigates his first career postseason, how much of a difference maker guys like Dillon Brooks and Ja Morant are on the court against the Timberwolves, and lots more.
And of course, a fan favorite, the nickname Ziadryation is talked about.
On this week's episode of Just Grizzlies, Kelcey is joined by Dillon Brooks. Dillon the Villain opens up about how hard it was to be sidelined for a lot of the season, how he grew as a player & teammate during that time and why he sees it as a blessing in disguise. The duo also dives into how and why this Grizzlies team continues to break records, the team's expectations for the postseason and much more.
On this week's episode of the Just Grizzlies podcast, Kyle Anderson sits down with Kelcey Wright Johnson and breaks down the similarities and differences between the Grizzlies' culture this year, and the team culture he felt his rookie season in San Antonio. He also talks about his personal development, how hard it is to succeed in the NBA, the importance of family, and he weighs in on the Russell Westbrook fan interaction situation. Lastly, Kelcey took to Twitter and asked fans for their questions for Kyle and when he answers them some of his responses will surprise you.
On this week's episode of Just Grizzlies, Kelcey is joined by Grizzlies sophomore Xavier Tillman Sr. who talks about the blur that was his rookie year, what he brings to the team, his mentality as he prepares for games and much more. He plays a game to test how well he know his teammates, and he then he opens up about why he's deleted the Twitter app off of his phone.
On this week's episode of the Just Grizzlies podcast, Steven Adams joins host Kelcey Wright Johnson to discuss adjusting to playing in Memphis this year, why he thinks the team has been so successful, and which teammates he has learned the most from this year. He talks about his time in the NBA, he talks about fashion, he talks about his family and New Zealand - and he answers a bunch of questions from the fans.
On this week's episode of the Just Grizzlies podcast with Kelcey Wright Johnson, Brandon Clarke hops on the mic to talk about the perfect alley-oop; who throws it, how he initiates it, how he keeps his body ready and more. He also opens up about keeping his mental heath strong during tough periods, his incredible PER rating this season, his relationship with Jaren Jackson Jr. and a special shoutout to his two pet kittens.
On this week's episode of the Just Grizzlies podcast with Kelcey Wright Johnson, she is joined by Killian Tillie who discusses his new contract signing and which vets have helped him develop his game. He also addresses the rumors about the Grizzlies trash talking and describes exactly how he likes to trash talk on the court. The French center also opens up about his infamous pet, his athletic family and much more.
On this week's episode of the Just Grizzlies podcast with Kelcey Wright Johnson, De'Anthony Melton talks about how much his game has improved this season but also where he still feels he needs to improve. He also walks Kelcey through his game day routine from the moment he opens his eyes until the ball tips off.
On this week's episode, Kelcey Wright Johnson is joined by Grizzlies point guard Tyus Jones. The two rewind in time and talk about last year's playoffs and how it helped prepare the team for success this year. They also open up about Ja Morant's injury and how it has affected Tyus. And of course, it wouldn't be a Tyus interview if the duo didn't discuss the assist to turnover ratio.
On this week's episode, Kelcey Wright Johnson is joined by Ziaire Williams to talk about his first few months in the NBA. The two discuss how he's settled into his role, what he still wants to work on, and more. The duo talk about that corner three that Ziaire loves so much and what's its been like guarding some of the best guards in the league. He also plays a game of 'this or that' with some of his teammates.
On this week's episode of the Just Grizzlies podcast, Kelcey Wright Johnson is joined by Jaren Jackson Jr. The fourth-year power forward talks about his expectations for the year, as well as his recent contract extension. Then he opens up about his mentality toward life and walks Kelcey through his mindset of some of his wisest tweets.
On this week's episode of the Just Grizzlies with Kelcey Wright Johnson, Ja Morant opens up about his underdog mentality, his goals for the season and much more. Kelcey and Ja also talk family, social media and the WNBA.
On this week's episode of the Just Grizzlies podcast, Kelcey Wright Johnson is joined by Taylor Jenkins, head coach of the Memphis Grizzlies. Jenkins reflects on his last two seasons with the team and what he's looking forward to in his third year (including some great community involvement). He also has a candid and open conversation about education, social reform, and much more. If you want to get to know the coach better, this week's episode is for you!
On this episode of Just Grizzlies, Kelcey Wright Johnson is joined by Tim Howard, the current sporting director and minority owner of Memphis 901 FC. Tim reflects on his time playing for Manchester United and Everton FC, of the Premier League and talks about the differences in fandom between England and America. He also talks about the US Men's National Team, the way athlete's think and approach their jobs, as well as his Tourette Syndrome diagnoses and how he aims to inspire children who have TS too.
On this episode of Just Grizzlies, Kelcey Wright Johnson is joined by Shareef Abdur-Rahim, the Vancouver Grizzlies' third overall draft pick in 1996 and the current President of the NBA G League. Shareef reminisces about the legendary 1996 draft and what he remembers from the night he was drafted. He talks about his time with the Grizzlies, the future of the G League and much more.
On this episode of Just Grizzlies, Kelcey Wright Johnson is joined by Shane Battier, a two-time NBA champion who played with the Grizzlies from 2001-2006. The duo talk about his time with the Grizzlies, his famous shot that pushed the Grizzlies to the franchise's first playoff victory, what he's done since retirement and much more.
On this episode of Just Grizzlies, Kelcey Wright Johnson is joined by one of the best NBA 2K players in the entire world; Grizz Gaming's Mehyar Ahmed-Hassan — better known as Authentic African in the Esports world. Double-A discusses how he got into gaming, all about his character and his play, how he finds success in the league and more. He also dishes on his teammates and helps listeners get to know the Grizz Gaming squad.
On this week's episode of the Just Grizzlies podcast, Kelcey Wright Johnson is joined by "the real K.J. Wright" as both KJ's battle it out for the right's to the title. The Memphis-born Super Bowl champion talks about his impact on his community and around the world, his time in the NFL, his college days at MSU, his hometown and lots more.
On this episode of the Just Grizzlies podcast, host Kelcey Wright Johnson is joined by Zach Myers, a multi-platinum recording artist and guitarist for Shinedown. The duo unravel a mysterious catfish situation on Instagram that they've both been a part of it. But first, they talk about Zach's Grizzlies fandom, his insane shoe collection and the event he says was the most nerve-wracking thing he's ever done.
On this episode of Just Grizzlies, Kelcey Wright Johnson is joined by Grizzlies' guard Tyus Jones. The duo talk about Tyus' experience playing in a playoff atmosphere, how it's been different this year, and how he's helped the rookies along the way. He talks about the ups and downs of this season, and discusses the major highlight of the year for him.
On this episode of Just Grizzlies, Kelcey Wright Johnson is joined by Tim Frazier. The two discuss Tim's long career in the NBA and G-League, who he looks up to and how he's adjusted to living in Memphis. Tim gives an inside look at what it means to be a journeyman in the league and what he thinks he brings to this young Grizzlies squad.
On this episode of Just Grizzlies, Kelcey Wright Johnson is joined by De'Anthony Melton. The pair discuss the big leaps in De'Anthony's game this season and how grades his play so far this year. He also discusses his many nicknames, his jersey number and much more.
On this episode of Just Grizzlies, Kelcey Wright Johnson is joined by Dillon Brooks. The duo talk about this year's March Madness and how the PAC12 dominated the men's and women's tournaments. Dillon reflects on his three years playing at Oregon and what he learned about himself during his time at school. He also helps Kelcey fill out a funny bracket involving his Memphis Grizzlies teammates.
On this episode of Just Grizzlies, Kelcey Wright Johnson is joined by Brandon Clarke. The two discuss why he wears number 15 across his chest and transitioning to the NBA. Get an inside look at some of Brandon's favorite quotes, tattoos, VHS tapes and much more.
On this week's episode of the Just Grizzlies podcast with Kelcey Wright Johnson, she asked Grizz Nation what questions they had, and Brevin Knight called in to answer them. From what Ja Morant's ceiling is, to the best Grizzlies duo of all time — Brevin gives all the insight.
On this week's episode of the Just Grizzlies podcast with Kelcey Wright Johnson, Grizzlies guard John Konchar joins the chat to talk about the pause in the Grizzlies' season earlier this year as part of health and safety protocols. He also discusses transitioning from a two-contract last year to a 4-year Grizzlies contract this season and gives advice to the new members of the Memphis Hustle. Then, Hustle head coach Jason March hops on the podcast to preview the G-League season — which will take place in a bubble in Orlando — how he approaches this season differently than ever before, and which players to watch out for as the new season quickly approaches.
On this week's episode, Kelcey Wright Johnson is joined by rookie Xavier Tillman Sr. as he helps fans get to know his teammates better by describing their personalities one by one. He also chats about his lifelong friendship with Jaren Jackson Jr., and what he is passionate about outside of basketball.
On this week's episode Kelcey Wright Johnson is joined by Kyle Anderson. Kyle discusses what it's been like for the team to be playing in empty arenas to start the season, and how fatherhood has changed him as a person. Then, Kyle and Kelcey talk about his fashion and where it comes from, and play a game where they discuss each players' fashion on the squad.
On this week's episode, Kelcey Wright Johnson is joined by rookie Desmond Bane. Desmond walks through what draft night was like for him and his family, how he sees himself fitting into Memphis and how he's been able to change his body over the years. He discusses how being raised by his great-grandparents prepared him for different situations in life, and when his "Welcome to the NBA" moment was.
On this week's episode Kelcey Wright Johnson is joined by Grayson Allen and Jontay Porter. Grayson starts the episode by talking about the upcoming season, mental toughness, and how he practices mindfulness. He opens up about his time at Duke and how he learned to 'turn off' social media. He also plays a game of 'The Office' trivia with Kelcey. Then, Jontay Porter joins the podcast for the first time and as a way to introduce himself to the city, he answers all the hard hitting questions like, "what are you pet peeves?", "what's your nickname?", "who was your first celebrity crush?", and much more!
On this week's episode Kelcey Wright Johnson is joined by Coach Niele Ivey, a former assistant coach with the Memphis Grizzlies and the current head coach of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish women's basketball team. Ivey spent one year with the Grizzlies after winning two national championships with Notre Dame (one as a player and one as an assistant coach), playing five years in the WNBA and serving 12 years under the Hall of Fame coach Muffet McGraw. Ivey reflects on her year coaching in the NBA and working with players like Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr., she talks about how special returning to her alma mater is, the pressures of representing women and single mothers everywhere, and lastly she discusses how different this collegiate season will be for her as she navigates the new normals of 2020-21.
On this week's episode, Kelcey Wright Johnson is joined by WNBA's Dearica Hamby, the back-to-back reigning Sixth Woman of the Year. The Las Vegas Ace star opens up about the this year's unprecedented season in the WNBA bubble in Florida (where she brought her daughter), the struggles with parenting in the bubble, her relationship with the league's MVP A'ja Wilson and much more. She also sticks around for a game of 'Pick 6' with Kelcey.
On this week's episode, Kelcey Wright Johnson is joined by Bleacher Report's Taylor Rooks. Rooks looks back at some of her most memorable interviews with the NBA's top players, as well as pays a big compliment to the Grizzlies' Ja Morant. Then, she plays a game of "Pick the Rook" with Kelcey to try and match each NBA rookie to their tweet.
This week on Just Grizzlies, Kelcey is joined by Memphis native James Wade, who is the head coach of the Chicago Sky in the WNBA. Wade won the WNBA Coach of the Year Award in 2019 in his first season as a head coach — and he discusses his journey through basketball from Memphis, to Minnesota, to Chicago, to now living full-time in France. He also talks about his experience this year in the WNBA Bubble in Florida and how the league continues to tackle social justice issues.
This week on Just Grizzlies, Kelcey is joined by Memphis legend Zach Randolph. Z-bo discusses his time in Portland, his time in Memphis, rivalries throughout his career and much more. He also answers questions submitted by fans.
This week on Just Grizzlies, Kelcey Wright Johnson is joined by reigning WNBA champion Natasha Cloud. An opportunity to have a difficult and candid conversation about sexuality, race and the BLM movement; Natasha talks about her experience being a biracial and bisexual woman in America. She also takes the opportunity to share the work she has done after opting out of the WNBA season to focus on social reform.
This week on Just Grizzlies, Kelcey is joined by Memphis Grizzlies legend Tony Allen as he tells ten incredibly-entertaining stories including tales about Kobe Bryant, Mike Conley, Z-Bo and more. He talks about everything from his fashion evolution to what he said to the referees before each game.
This week on Just Grizzlies, Kelcey is joined by Grizzlies/Hustle two-way player John Konchar and they discuss life in the bubble, how he is passing his time and much more. John gives his thoughts on Fort Wayne's newest holiday and plays a game with Grind City Media's social media manager, Devin Walker, to see who knows the Grizzlies players the best.
On this episode of Just Grizzlies with Kelcey Wright Johnson, Josh Jackson joins the podcast to breakdown how his first year in Memphis has been going. He also plays a game called "11 Things" to give Kelcey - and Grizzlies fans - a chance to get to know him better.
This week on Just Grizzlies, Kelcey sits down with Justise Winslow from the NBA bubble. They discuss what life is like right now in Orlando, how Justise fits into his new Memphis squad, and his strong feelings toward the Black Lives Matter movement. They also play a game of 'Fill in the Blanks' to get to know him better.
This week on Just Grizzlies, Kelcey is joined by Memphis Grizzlies' assistant coach Brad Jones as they discuss the NBA's hiatus, the league's restart in Orlando and the team's goals looking ahead at the playoff race.
Then as a special bonus, a never-before-heard interview with Kyle Anderson, which was recorded before the NBA's suspension. Kyle talks about his nickname, what food grosses him out, and hands out awards to his teammates(26:43).
This week on Just Grizzlies, Kelcey is joined by Elliot Perry and he talks about growing up in Memphis, playing for the Tigers, retiring as part of the Grizzlies and more. He also explains the nickname 'Socks' and much more.
This week on Just Grizzlies, Kelcey sits down with Gorgui Dieng to talk about Basketball Without Borders, how he gives back to his native country of Senegal, and what success in life means to him. And he also answers some questions sent in by listeners. Then, Jon Krawczynski from The Athletic Minnesota joins the podcast to talk about what he has learned about Gorgui in the last seven seasons and the kind of person he is on and off the court.
This week on Just Grizzlies, Kelcey sits down with Jordan Bell fresh off his move to Memphis. He chats about his favorite music, being traded to the Grizzlies, reuniting with his former college teammate Dillon Brooks and much more. Then, The Oregonian reporter Jamie Goldberg joins the podcast to discuss the importance of the former Duck teammates reconnecting once again on the hardwood and what it means to the state of Oregon to see them back together.
This week on Just Grizzlies, Kelcey sits down with assistant coach Scoonie Penn to discuss his playing days at Ohio State, being inducted into Ohio State’s Hall of Fame, his legacy and much more. The two delve into life and lessons, and discuss some of the hardest decisions Scoonie ever had to make.
This week on Just Grizzlies, Kelcey talks to Grind City Media’s Michael Wallace about the trade deadline, the players Memphis acquired and how those pieces fit into the puzzle. He also goes behind-the-scenes to discuss the new roster meeting up for the first time and which players connects the new guys on the squad.
This week on Just Grizzlies, Kelcey breaks down and discusses the internet’s biggest debates of the year with Grayson Allen and Brandon Clarke. From the dress, to the shoes, to airplanes and showers – these debates divided the internet and they divide these teammates too. Then, Chris Vernon joins the podcast to talk about Grayson and Brandon’s play so far this season, and about a lot of other problems he has with Kelcey and this podcast.
This week on Just Grizzlies, Kelcey chats with Jonas Valanciunas about the move from Toronto to Memphis, how his role has changed within the Grizzlies’ young roster, and more. Then, ESPN writer Tim MacMahon joins the podcast to discuss what he likes about the Grizzlies this season, their success so far this year, and he shares his projection for the squad looking ahead at the playoff push.
This week on Just Grizzlies, Kelcey sits down with Tyus Jones to discuss his 2015 NCAA National Championship, the brotherhood of Duke players in the NBA and then tests his knowledge about his former college days. Plus, a special guest crashes the couches to add a bit of surprise spice to the podcast. Then, The Daily Memphian’s Chris Herrington hops on the podcast to analyze Tyus’s play so far this season and talk about the young squad’s chances at making the playoffs.
This week on Just Grizzlies, Kelcey talks with point guard De’Anthony Melton about his first year with the Memphis Grizzlies, how he is getting himself involved in the community, and he tries to clear up the multiple miscommunications the two have had so far this season due to Kelcey’s (lack of) cool lingo. Then, GCM’s Meghan Triplett joins the podcast to discuss what she’s seen from De’Anthony so far this season, and she makes a bold prediction about the Grizzlies' upcoming games.
This week on Just Grizzlies, Kelcey talks with the Memphis Grizzlies broadcast duo of Pete Pranica and Brevin Knight about the origins of the “and they showed up on time” and “hammer, nail, coffin” calls. They also discuss their friendship, their New Year’s resolutions and how this job as a play-by-play commentator with the Grizzlies helped Pete meet some long-lost family on the other side of the world.
This week on Just Grizzlies, Kelcey talks with coach David McClure about his playing days at Duke, and all the challenges that come from transitioning from player to coach. Then, Memphis Grizzlies social media specialist (the man behind the memes!) Devin Walker, joins Kelcey to talk about what goes on behind the scenes of Instagram and Twitter, and to play a special game that will definitely help you get to know some of the players on the Memphis Grizzlies.
This week on Just Grizzlies, Kelcey talks with the Memphis Hustle’s Dusty Hannahs about his G League Player of the Week honor earlier this month. Then, coach Jason March joined the podcast to discuss his return to Memphis and his Coach of the Month award from November. Lastly, GCM's Jon Roser gives his perspective on the record-breaking team, and what it’s been like covering this squad for the last three seasons.
This week on Just Grizzlies, Kelcey talks with Dillon Brooks about living in Memphis, the Grizzlies’ throwback jerseys and some of DB’s nicknames from throughout the years. Then, The Athletic’s Omari Sankofa II, joins the podcast from the road via Skype to talk about Brooks' progression from his rookie season to his third year in the NBA.
This week on Just Grizzlies, Kelcey talks to the duo of Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. about everything from sliding into DM’s, to fashion, to pizza. Then, GCM’s Mike Wallace joins the podcast to talk about the young duo’s performance together on the hardwood.