2024 NBA Draft: LA Lakers, Detroit Pistons, among biggest winners and losers

Winner: The traditional big

“The need for a traditional big is dead.” “He cannot defend.” “He’s not mobile enough.” “He’s only good because he is tall.”

Zach Edey heard the whispers. And now, he is set to deliver. The two-time National Player of the Year is headed to the Memphis Grizzlies, where he was selected 9th overall.

The rise of Edey, who boasts a monstrous 7-foot-4, 300-pound frame, has been incredible to watch over time. Unranked out of high school, Edey played a reserve role during his freshman year at Purdue, averaging 8.7 PPG in just 14.7 PPG while playing alongside another Purdue big in Trevion Williams. 

After Williams graduated in 2022, Edey skyrocketed into sheer dominance, averaging 22.2 PPG and 12.9 RPG his junior year and 25.2 PPG and 12.2 RPG his senior year, helping lead the Boilermakers to the national championship game last season.

After a strong showing in the NBA Combine, Edey’s stock continued to rise, and ultimately he found himself as a top-ten pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. It’s truly an incredible story.

The Grizzlies have now put their trust in the traditional big. Edey will play alongside Jaren Jackson Jr. as the drop defender down low -- a move that just may work out given the rise and dominance of Zach Edey, who is truly one-of-a-kind.