The head coach of the Memphis Grizzlies, Taylor Jenkins, joined other NBA figures in expressing sorrow over the tragic death of Tyre Nichols, a Black man who died following a confrontation with Memphis police.
Jenkins revealed on the Bally Sports Southeast broadcast that watching an interview with Nichols’ family, including his mother RowVaughn Wells, brought him to tears. He admitted feeling overwhelmed and unable to fully express his emotions about the loss.
Jenkins emphasized the profound impact Nichols’ death has had on his team and the city, noting the difficulty of being away from home during this period. He urged people to support each other and the Nichols and Wells families, highlighting Nichols’ positive influence on those around him.
Before the Grizzlies’ game against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday, a moment of silence was observed in Nichols’ honor. This gesture came in a city with its own painful history of police violence, following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020.
The Timberwolves, alongside the Minnesota Lynx, released a statement expressing deep sadness over Nichols’ death and extending condolences to his family and the Memphis community.
The NBA also reacted strongly, condemning the images of Nichols’ death as horrifying and reaffirming its commitment to collaborating with advocates and policymakers to address systemic issues.
Several NBA teams, including the Cleveland Cavaliers, Atlanta Hawks, and Miami Heat, issued statements of sympathy and support for the Nichols family and the city of Memphis.
The five officers involved in Nichols’ death have been dismissed from their positions, and Memphis Police Chief Cerelyn Davis condemned their actions as a severe breach of duty and disregard for life.