In order to obtain forward Cedric Coward from Washington State, the Grizzlies and the Portland Trail Blazers exchanged selection rights in the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft.
The Portland Trail Blazers traded Memphis the 11th pick, Coward, for the 16th pick and two second-round picks, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
The 16th pick was acquired by Memphis in the trade in June that sent Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic.
Washington State’s 6’5 forward Cedric Coward led the Cougars with an average of 17.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 3.7 assists during the 2024-2025 season.
Prior to his time with WSU, Coward began his collegiate career at Willamette University, a Division III program, before transferring to Eastern Washington University for his sophomore and junior years.
