Rookie forward Cedric Coward has been fully cleared for all basketball activities, according to Damichael Cole of The Commercial Appeal.
Cole reported on X that Coward will be a “full go” for training camp after sitting out summer league action due to injury concerns. The 22-year-old described his return as “like letting the wolves out.”
The Memphis Grizzlies acquired Coward in a draft-night deal after he was selected 11th overall by the Portland Trail Blazers in the 2025 NBA Draft. Memphis traded Yang Hansen and future draft considerations to land the versatile forward before signing him on July 8.
Coward made his name at Eastern Washington and Washington State, showing strong development as a scorer and rebounder. In his final collegiate season, he averaged 17.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game across six contests with the Cougars.
At 6-foot-6, Coward brings length and efficiency to the wing. His college career shooting splits — 59.5 percent from the field, 38.8 percent from three, and 83.2 percent from the free-throw line — highlight his ability to stretch defenses.
His addition comes as Memphis continues to reshape its roster under new head coach Tuomas Iisalo. With Ja Morant returning as the franchise cornerstone and Jaren Jackson Jr. anchoring the frontcourt, Coward is expected to carve out a role in a rotation that also features GG Jackson and Zach Edey.
The Grizzlies are aiming to bounce back from consecutive injury-plagued seasons that stalled their playoff progress. A healthy roster combined with the integration of Coward could provide much-needed depth as the franchise enters its 25th year in Memphis.
