Memphis Grizzlies guard Desmond Bane was not impressed with his placement in ESPN’s annual NBA Top 100 ranking, where he was ranked No. 60. In response, Bane described the ranking as a joke, hinting that he and his teammates are ready to prove doubters wrong.
Drew Hill tweeted Bane’s reaction to the ranking, quoting him as saying, “I saw that one. Jokes, man. It’s jokes. We are going to wake them back up though.” Bane’s frustration didn’t end with his own ranking. He also expressed dissatisfaction with where his teammates, Jaren Jackson Jr. and Ja Morant, were placed.
Jackson, the 2023 NBA’s Defensive Player of the Year, was ranked No. 55. Morant, despite his dynamic scoring ability and All-Star status, came in at No. 20. Bane voiced his disagreement with both of these rankings, as he believes the Grizzlies’ core is undervalued.
Over the past few seasons, Bane has established himself as one of the NBA’s most reliable shooting guards, known for his consistent scoring and strong defensive play. He has been instrumental in helping the Grizzlies become a top contender in the Western Conference, with his ability to knock down three-pointers and create offense playing a vital role in the team’s success.
Bane’s reaction to ESPN’s ranking is not uncommon among NBA players, many of whom often feel that their contributions are overlooked or undervalued by media outlets. For Bane, the No. 60 spot may serve as additional motivation as he looks to build on a successful 2023-24 season.
Last season Bane averaged 23.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game, solidifying his role as a key part of Memphis’ offense alongside Morant and Jackson.
