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Memphis Grizzlies Name Tuomas Iisalo as Permanent Head Coach

Iisalo becomes the NBA's first Finnish head coach, earning the role after a brief interim tenure and a strong vote of confidence from the team's leadership.

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Overview

  • Tuomas Iisalo has officially been promoted to permanent head coach of the Memphis Grizzlies, as announced by the team on May 2, 2025.
  • Iisalo is the first Finnish head coach in NBA history, marking a significant milestone for the league and his home country.
  • General Manager Zach Kleiman praised Iisalo's disciplined coaching style and expressed full confidence in his ability to lead the team forward.
  • Iisalo previously served as interim head coach following Taylor Jenkins' dismissal in late March 2025, leading the team to a 4-9 regular-season record and a first-round playoff exit.
  • Before joining the Grizzlies, Iisalo achieved notable success in European basketball, including a 2023 Champions League title with Telekom Baskets Bonn and a 2024 EuroCup victory with Paris Basketball.