Grizzlies rookie Cedric Coward cleared for training camp after shoulder injury

Grizzlies rookie Cedric Coward “100% cleared” for training camp

Great news for Memphis Grizzlies fans as rookie Cedric Coward announced he’s fully recovered from his shoulder injury and ready for the upcoming season.

“I’m 100% cleared,” Coward told reporters while attending a Memphis Redbirds baseball game this weekend, where he threw out the first pitch and signed autographs for fans.

The 22-year-old forward, who the Grizzlies acquired in a draft night trade, missed most of his final college season at Washington State due to a partially torn rotator cuff that required surgery.

Memphis has been extra careful with their prized rookie.

The team held him out of Summer League play to give his shoulder more time to heal, not wanting to risk any setbacks with their 11th overall pick.

“I’m super excited to get back on the court against real competition,” Coward said, looking ahead to the Grizzlies’ first preseason game on October 6.

Despite playing just six games in his final college season, Coward showed why he was worth a lottery pick. He averaged an impressive 17.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.7 blocks per game at Washington State.

What really stands out is his shooting touch.

He hit 40% of his three-pointers while attempting 5 per game, making him a potential floor-spacer for Memphis right away.

With the Grizzlies trading away shooting guard Desmond Bane to Orlando this offseason, there’s a real opportunity for Coward to earn significant playing time if he impresses during training camp.

The timing couldn’t be better for Memphis, as NBA teams will begin their training camps in late September to prepare for the 2025-26 season.

For a team looking to bounce back after a disappointing season, having their first-round pick healthy and ready to contribute is exactly what the Grizzlies needed to hear.