Taylor Jenkins becomes the Memphis Grizzlies’ winningest coach

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Taylor Jenkins has moved to the top of the Memphis Grizzlies coaching ladder.

With Memphis’ 117-111 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday night, Jenkins, in his sixth season as the Grizzlies’ coach, captured his 215th victory, moving him past Lionel Hollins as the winningest coach in franchise history.

“It’s an incredible honor to be in the company of so many great coaches that have come before me,” Jenkins said after celebrating with his team in the locker room. “I always talk about the incredible responsibility of being the coach of this franchise. It’s a privilege and an honor.”

The Grizzlies’ coaching staff includes Hubie Brown and Mike Fratello, along with Hollins and current Detroit Pistons coach JB Bickerstaff.

Jenkins served in various roles with the San Antonio Spurs, Atlanta Hawks and Milwaukee Bucks before being named coach of the Grizzlies in June 2019. He made the Western Conference postseason three straight years before injuries ended the streak last season.

As for the celebration, guard Desmond Bane, who scored 21 points in Wednesday’s win, said “it was special” for the coach he considers the best he’s ever played for.

“Coach Jenkins is the best coach in Memphis Grizzlies history,” Bane said. “He deserves it. Humble guy… It was good for him to actually embrace it, just because he’s such a humble guy.”

For Jenkins, he enjoyed the moment and was grateful for the performance, but after a brief celebration and reflection, it was all about getting ready for the Grizzlies’ road game against the Chicago Bulls on Saturday.

“It’s not about me at the end of the day,” Jenkins said. “We have a lot more to work on. But I wake up every day and I’m happy.

“It’s an absolute blessing to be in this position.”