MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Memphis Grizzlies rookie Jaylen Wells has been named a finalist for the NBA’s Kia Rookie of the Year award.
A 21-year-old forward hailing from Washington State, Wells was the 39th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft.
Since joining the Memphis Grizzlies, Wells has been a bright spot in the season. He played in 79 games and was in the starting lineup for 74 of them.
Wells has earned a reputation as a hard-nosed perimeter defender willing to pick the opponent’s best players.
Wells averaged 10 points, three rebounds, and 2 assists in the 2024-2025 season. He shot at 42.5% from the field this season.
Wells has been sidelined for the postseason after sustaining a broken wrist and a concussion during the Grizzlies’ April 8 game against the Charlotte Hornets.
San Antonio Spurs point guard Stephon Castle and Atlanta Hawks center Zaccharie Risacher were also finalists.