Grizzlies Target Nate Ament
The Memphis Grizzlies are positioned to select Tennessee freshman Nate Ament with the 8th pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, according to draft analysts. The 6'10", 207-pound combo forward offers "NBA-range shooting ability, good ball security, and efficient rebounding" but lacks explosive athleticism. Ament can play both forward positions and would address the Grizzlies' biggest draft need at power forward as they continue their rebuilding process.
- During his freshman season at the University of Tennessee, Nate Ament averaged 18.0 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game. After a slow start to the season, he showed significant improvement, at one point averaging 22.2 points over a stretch of games and winning three SEC Freshman of the Week awards. - Scouting reports frequently mention Ament's 7-foot-1 wingspan and high release point on his jump shot as key attributes. While his three-point percentage was 31.7% for the season, analysts note his form suggests potential to be a significant perimeter threat in the NBA. - Player comparisons for Ament from draft analysts include a "stiffer Matas Buzelis, more physical Zaccharie Risacher, leaner Rui Hachimura," highlighting his potential as a versatile, skilled forward. - A significant area of concern for scouts is his efficiency at the rim, where he converted only 51.4% of his shot attempts. Despite his height, he is not a prolific shot blocker, averaging only 0.4 blocks per game, and has been critiqued for not fully leveraging his size on the defensive end. - The Grizzlies' rebuilding effort was accelerated by the trade of All-Star forward Jaren Jackson Jr. at the 2026 trade deadline. The team is building around a young core that includes Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, and recent lottery picks like center Zach Edey (9th overall, 2024) and wing Cedric Coward (11th overall, 2025). - The 2026 NBA Draft is considered a strong and deep class, particularly with freshmen talent. Top prospects alongside Ament include guards Darryn Peterson (Kansas) and forwards AJ Dybantsa (BYU) and Cameron Boozer (Duke). - Ament's fit with the Grizzlies would be alongside their established backcourt of Ja Morant and Desmond Bane. The current power forward rotation includes veterans like Kyle Anderson and younger players such as Taylor Hendricks and GG Jackson.
