Born in Cordova, Tennessee, Memphis Grizzlies rookie Kennedy Chandler established his basketball prowess early in his life. Although this was his birthplace, Chandler grew up in none other than Memphis, Tennessee. In fact, he attended Briarcrest Christian School, where his basketball career skyrocketed. Sporting #1 on his jersey, he proved that his skill matched his number as he “earned back-to-back Mr. Basketball honors” as a “sophomore and junior” (utsports.com). Statistically, he averaged 22.2 points, 4.3 assists, and 2.6 steals per game. After this successful period, he moved to Sunrise Christian Academy in Bel Aire, Kansas, where he graduated as a “consensus five-star prospect” and “the nation’s top point guard in the Class of 2021” (utsports.com). 

Putting this ranking to use, Chandler committed to the revered SEC heavyweight University of Tennessee Knoxville. There, he averaged 13.9 points in his one year playing for the university. As the NBA draft drew near, putting his name in the mix of prospects was all he could think about, so he officially declared for the draft. The first round passed as Chandler, his friends, and his family still waited for the name Kennedy Chandler to be called. Finally, he was drafted no. 38 by the San Antonio Spurs, who would immediately trade him to his hometown team: the Memphis Grizzlies. 

The fact that Chandler wounded up back in his hometown is remarkable, but what is even more remarkable is his jaw-dropping contract. The contract amounts to $7.1 million with $4.94 million guaranteed, which happens to be the largest contract ever rewarded to a second-round pick. Such a deal signifies Chandler’s incomparable and indubitable talent. Some thought that the Grizzlies took a potentially detrimental gamble by signing him, but the franchise clearly thinks otherwise. The cherry on top of this already sweet deal is that Chandler will get to play alongside his longtime friend and mentor Ja Morant. With these two stars hustling down the floor together, opposing teams would be remiss not to prepare. So, get ready, Grizzlies fans! Kennedy Chandler is prepared to make his mark on the NBA!