Tuomas Iisalo is making an early case to remain the head coach of the Memphis Grizzlies beyond this season.
According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Grizzlies spent extensive time scouting Iisalo during his tenure with Paris Basketball, which culminated in a EuroCup title and a Coach of the Year award in 2024.
“It’s believed that Iisalo will have a shot to succeed [Taylor] Jenkins permanently depending on how this sudden opportunity to take over goes,” Stein wrote on Substack.
Iisalo took over as Memphis’ interim coach after the team unexpectedly fired Jenkins despite a 44-29 record. The move surprised many, considering Jenkins was the winningest coach in franchise history and helped build the team into a perennial playoff contender.
Since assuming the role, Iisalo has yet to secure his first NBA victory, with Memphis dropping back-to-back games against the Los Angeles Lakers (134-127) and Boston Celtics (117-103).
The Grizzlies, now 44-31, will look to bounce back tonight when they host the Golden State Warriors (43-31) in a critical Western Conference matchup.
General manager Zach Kleiman has not confirmed whether Iisalo is a frontrunner for the full-time position, but Memphis’ performance in the final weeks of the season could heavily influence that decision.
The 42-year-old Finnish coach has gained recognition for his tactical creativity and ability to maximize talent, qualities that made him a top target for the Grizzlies’ coaching staff.
Before joining Memphis, Iisalo transformed Paris Basketball into a European powerhouse, leading them to their first major title and implementing an efficient offensive system.
His reputation as an innovative strategist aligns with Memphis’ long-term vision, but he faces immediate pressure to keep the team stable during a highly competitive playoff race.
Jenkins’ dismissal has left lingering questions about the organization’s direction, particularly given his strong track record in player development and defensive schemes.
Under his leadership, the Grizzlies finished with a franchise-best 56-26 record in 2022, and he was named NBA Coach of the Year for his efforts.
Despite injuries affecting the roster, Jenkins still guided Memphis to a top-five seed in the West before being let go.
Memphis’ recent struggles on defense and a .500 record over their last 10 games may have played a role in the decision to part ways with him.
Iisalo, known for emphasizing pace and floor spacing, is now tasked with maintaining the team’s identity while making necessary adjustments for a deep playoff run.
With the Western Conference standings tightly packed, every game matters for Memphis, and Iisalo’s ability to command the locker room will be under close scrutiny.
If he manages to steady the team and make a strong postseason push, his chances of securing the full-time job could improve significantly.
However, if the Grizzlies falter under his leadership, Memphis may explore other coaching options in the offseason.
Meanwhile, Jenkins is expected to be a highly sought-after candidate for multiple head coaching vacancies this summer.
His player development success, combined with his consistent winning record, makes him one of the most appealing coaches on the market.
For now, all eyes are on Iisalo as he attempts to make his mark in the NBA and prove he deserves to stay in Memphis beyond this season.
