BREAKING NEWS: Excitements Hit Great FedExForum Stadium as Former Head Coach Memphis Grizzlies Legend Lionel Hollins has Returned to Former Team as a Senior Coaching…see more

A wave of excitement and nostalgia swept through Memphis today as the Grizzlies made a stunning announcement: franchise legend and former head coach Lionel Hollins is officially returning to the team, this time in a new role as Senior Coaching Advisor.

The return of Hollins — the architect behind Memphis’s “Grit and Grind” era — marks a powerful reunion between the veteran coach and the franchise he helped shape into a perennial playoff contender during the early 2010s. FedExForum buzzed with emotion as fans, former players, and staff welcomed back one of the most respected figures in team history.

A Legendary Reunion

“Lionel’s return is more than just a hire — it’s a homecoming,” said Grizzlies GM Zach Kleiman. “His basketball mind, championship experience, and deep connection to this city make him an invaluable addition to our coaching and player development efforts.”

Hollins, 71, will serve as a strategic advisor to the coaching staff, offer mentorship to young players, and assist in high-level decision-making around game planning and team development. Though he won’t be on the sidelines every night, his fingerprints will undoubtedly be felt throughout the organization.

Hollins Speaks: “Memphis Is Home”

In his first public comments since the announcement, Hollins expressed both pride and purpose.

“This is where I belong,” Hollins said. “Memphis is home, and the Grizzlies are family. I’ve always believed in this franchise, and I’m honored to help guide the next generation of players and leaders. I’m not here for nostalgia — I’m here to win.”

Grizzlies History Runs Deep

Hollins’ tenure as head coach from 2009 to 2013 was the most successful era in franchise history at the time. Under his leadership, the Grizzlies transformed from a middling team into a Western Conference powerhouse known for tough defense, physical play, and unrelenting effort. He led the team to its first-ever playoff series win in 2011 and guided them to the Western Conference Finals in 2013.

Beloved by fans for his no-nonsense approach and old-school basketball values, Hollins remains the franchise’s all-time leader in coaching wins (196).

The Role: Advisor, Mentor, Visionary

In his new role, Hollins will work closely with head coach Taylor Jenkins and the current coaching staff, particularly in player development and defensive strategy — areas where Hollins has long been considered a master. His mentorship will be especially valuable to Memphis’s young core, including stars like Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Desmond Bane.

“This is a tremendous opportunity for all of us,” said Jenkins. “Coach Hollins brings a championship pedigree, deep basketball insight, and the ability to connect with players across all levels. He’ll help push this team to new heights.”

Fans Celebrate a Grizzlies Icon

Within minutes of the announcement, social media lit up with tributes to Hollins, with fans posting old photos, game highlights, and heartfelt messages under hashtags like #GritAndGrindReturns and #WelcomeBackCoach.

“I still remember the 2011 playoff run like it was yesterday,” one fan posted. “Coach Hollins gave this team its identity. Having him back means something special is brewing in Memphis again.”

Looking Ahead

The Grizzlies have made no secret of their championship aspirations. After multiple postseason appearances and the emergence of an exciting young core, the team is now aiming to blend talent with wisdom — and Lionel Hollins is the perfect embodiment of that mission.

As the next chapter of Grizzlies basketball unfolds, one thing is clear: a familiar voice is once again echoing through the FedExForum — and with Lionel Hollins back in the building, Memphis basketball just got a lot stronger.