Zach Edey Surprises NBA Fans with 3-Point Attempts in Grizzlies’ Loss to Hornets

Memphis Grizzlies rookie center Zach Edey made a living in the paint while starring at Purdue, averaging 25.2 points, 12.2 rebounds and 2.2 blocks per game for the national runner-up last year.

However, there was an interesting sight during the Grizzlies’ 119-94 home loss to the Charlotte Hornets in preseason action on Thursday.

Namely, the 7’4″, 305-pound Edey took three three-pointers, or two more than he ever attempted during his four years at Purdue.

Edey didn’t make any of his three attempts and struggled offensively overall, scoring 10 points on 2-of-8 shooting (6-of-8 free throws). He also grabbed five rebounds and blocked one shot.

Edey didn’t take any threes in his first preseason game on Monday, a 121-116 win over the Dallas Mavericks that saw him finish with six points and seven rebounds. So this was a brand-new sight for the big man.

It’s not a surprise that he attempted the threes in a meaningless preseason game. Big men routinely stretch the court these days, of course, with centers taking (and making) threes regularly.

But that’s not Edey’s game, at least not yet. He is clearly working on it, though, and showed off some long-range skills at the NBA Draft Combine.

However, in-game action remains a work-in-progress, and fans weren’t exactly thrilled at the early results.

Of course, it’s only one preseason game, and Edey hasn’t exactly been shooting threes against real competition before Thursday. Perhaps it’s a skill he picks up down the line, but for now, he’s still working on his craft.

Edey and the Grizzlies will take the court next on Saturday at the Chicago Bulls. Their first regular season game is on Oct. 23 at the Utah Jazz.