Hey basketball fans! If you’ve been keeping an eye on the NBA this year, you’ve probably noticed Zach Edey making waves with the Memphis Grizzlies. The phrase “Zach Edey stats” has been popping up everywhere, and for good reason—he’s a 7-foot-4 rookie rewriting the narrative around big men in the league. As of April 8, 2025, his numbers are turning heads, and his journey from college standout to NBA rookie sensation is one worth diving into. Let’s break down what makes this guy special, explore his latest performances, and see why he’s got everyone talking.
I first caught wind of Edey during his Purdue days, where he dominated college hoops with back-to-back Naismith Player of the Year awards. Now, seeing him translate that success to the pros is thrilling. With the Grizzlies, he’s not just holding his own—he’s setting records and proving doubters wrong. So, grab a snack, settle in, and let’s unpack the stats, stories, and surprises behind this towering talent.
From Purdue to the Pros: Edey’s Journey
Zach Edey didn’t take the typical path to NBA stardom. Back in 2020, he was ranked 436th in his high school class—hardly the stuff of future lottery picks. Fast forward to his final college season in 2023-24, and he was averaging 22.3 points and 12.9 rebounds per game, leading the NCAA in boards. That’s the kind of leap that makes you sit up and take notice. Drafted ninth overall by Memphis in 2024, Edey carried a big question mark: could his old-school, paint-dominated game work in today’s fast-paced NBA?
Early on, skeptics wondered if he’d adapt. But as the 2025 season unfolds, Edey’s proving he’s more than a throwback center. His size—7-foot-4 and 300 pounds—gives him an edge, sure, but it’s his smarts and hustle that really shine. Under interim coach Tuomas Iisalo, who took over after Taylor Jenkins’ firing in March, Edey’s role has expanded. The result? A rookie campaign that’s rewriting Grizzlies history.
Zach Edey Stats: Breaking Down the Numbers
Let’s get to the meat of it—those “Zach Edey stats” everyone’s buzzing about. As of his latest game on April 5, 2025, against the Detroit Pistons, Edey set a Grizzlies rookie rebounding record with 21 boards in a 109-103 win. He played nearly 29 minutes, shooting 37.5% from the field, and added a career-high in assists. That’s not a one-off, either. Since Iisalo took the helm, Edey’s averaging 8.4 points, 12.6 rebounds (3.4 offensive), and 2.2 stocks (steals plus blocks) per game, with a true shooting percentage of 60.1%.
Here’s a quick snapshot of his recent performances:
| Game Date | Opponent | Points | Rebounds | Blocks | Minutes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| April 5, 2025 | Pistons | 10 | 21 | 1 | 28:59 |
| April 1, 2025 | Warriors | 10 | 16 | 4 | 32:00 |
| March 29, 2025 | Lakers | 14 | 11 | 3 | 25:00 |
What stands out? His rebounding. Edey’s snagging double-digit boards in four of his last five games. Against the Warriors, he held his own despite a 134-125 loss, battling Steph Curry’s 52-point explosion with 16 rebounds and four blocks. That’s grit right there.
Why Edey’s Making Waves
So, why’s everyone obsessed with Edey? It’s not just the numbers—it’s what they mean. At a time when the NBA leans toward stretch bigs and perimeter play, Edey’s an anomaly. He’s a throwback who’s thriving, using his size to dominate the glass and protect the rim. Fans on X are hyping him up, with posts noting his +12.0 net rating among rookies playing 20+ minutes—tops in the class.
His impact goes beyond stats, though. Teammates like Ja Morant rave about his screen-setting—Edey’s averaging 4.5 screen assists per game since Iisalo’s arrival, up from 1.9 under Jenkins. That’s unlocking Memphis’ offense in new ways. Plus, he’s keeping turnovers low (1.4 per game), a rarity for a rookie adjusting to the pros.
I’ve watched clips of him swatting shots and grabbing offensive boards like they’re his birthright. Against the Pistons, seven of his 21 rebounds were offensive, giving the Grizzlies second-chance points that sealed the deal. That’s the kind of hustle that wins games—and fans.
Challenges and Growth
Of course, it hasn’t all been smooth sailing. Edey’s had his struggles—like that March 20 game against Portland, where foul trouble limited him to 11 minutes and six points. His three-point shooting’s still a work in progress; he’s missed attempts lately, hovering around 36% for the season. Critics say he needs to stretch the floor more to be a complete modern big.
Yet, every rookie hits bumps. What impresses me is how Edey bounces back. After that Portland dud, he dropped 14 points and 11 rebounds on the Lakers, showing resilience. Injuries have nagged him too—right ankle soreness made him questionable in March—but he’s played through it, logging 30+ minutes for the first time against Golden State. That’s heart.
What’s Next for Edey?
With the Grizzlies pushing for a playoff spot—they’re fifth in the West as of now—Edey’s role will only grow. Their next game’s Tuesday against Charlotte, closing a road trip. If he keeps racking up double-doubles (he’s at eight this season), he might match Pau Gasol’s rookie franchise record. Imagine that: a ninth pick outshining top draft buzz.
Could he snag Rookie of the Year? His stats stack up—leading rookies in offensive and defensive ratings—and his team’s winning. Posts on X call him a lock, but competition’s stiff. Still, Edey’s not chasing awards; he’s chasing wins. As he told HoopsHype, “It’s been an up-and-down season for sure,” but he’s focused on doing his job.
Final Thoughts
Zach Edey’s stats tell a story of a rookie defying odds and carving his niche. From a low-ranked high schooler to a Grizzlies record-setter, he’s got the league buzzing. His rebounding, rim protection, and quiet confidence make him a player you can’t ignore. Whether he’s posterizing defenders or snagging boards, Edey’s proving big men still matter.
So, next time you hear “Zach Edey stats,” remember: it’s not just numbers—it’s a guy rewriting his narrative, one game at a time. Stick around for his journey; I’m betting it’s only getting started. What do you think—can he keep this up? Drop your thoughts below!