A Memphis Grizzlies star made a change.
$240 Million Grizzlies Star Breaks Silence After Unexpected Personal Decision originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Jaren Jackson Jr. has been a cornerstone for the Memphis Grizzlies since being selected fourth overall in the 2018 NBA Draft. Known for his elite shot-blocking and timely defensive plays, Jackson has earned multiple All-Star selections and was named the NBA Defensive Player of the Year in 2023.
His contributions, alongside superstar guard Ja Morant, have been crucial to Memphis's rise as contenders in the Western Conference. This summer, Jackson secured his future with the franchise by signing a five-year, $240 million contract extension. However, shortly after finalizing the deal, he sustained a turf toe injury that required surgical intervention.
Jaren Jackson Jr. Makes Announcement
As Jackson continues to recover from the offseason setback, he announced on Instagram that he would change his jersey number from No. 13 to No. 8 for the upcoming NBA season. Jackson, who has worn No. 13 since being drafted, explained his motivation behind his decision when speaking with Rohan Nadkarni of NBC News.
“It's super personal to me,” Jackson said. “It's super personal to my family. I'm connected with 8 in a real way. It reaches into the territory of new beginnings. It's infinite. It's just a good place to draw energy from.”
Jaren Jackson Jr. on his decision to switch his jersey number from 13 to 8:
— NBA Retweet (@RTNBA) August 13, 2025
“It's super personal to my family… I'm connected with 8 in a real way. It reaches into the territory of new beginnings. It's infinite. It's just a good place to draw energy from”
via @RohanNadkarnipic.twitter.com/siWeezqF3W
Notably, Jackson's father, Jaren Jackson Sr., also wore No. 8 during his NBA career with the Los Angeles Clippers in the 1992-93 season. This continuity honors the family's basketball legacy and marks a fresh chapter for Jackson Jr. as he now prepares for his eighth season with the Grizzlies.
Jaren Jackson Jr’s Journey to Full Recovery
Jackson is currently recovering from surgery to repair a turf toe injury in his right foot. The procedure was successful, and he is expected to be reevaluated in September, with a full recovery anticipated, according to ESPN. His timely return would be crucial for the Grizzlies who are hoping to make some noise in a stacked Western Conference next season.
Over his seven-year career with the Grizzlies, Jackson has established himself as one of the premier defenders in the league. He has averaged 18.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks in 407 regular season appearances. His accolades include being a two-time NBA All-Star, the 2022-23 Defensive Player of the Year, and a three-time All-Defensive Team selection. Jackson's ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor makes him a central figure in Memphis's long-term plans.
Jackson helped the Grizzlies clinch a postseason berth last season, while averaging 22.2 points, 5.6 rebounds and 2.0 assists in 74 games. However, they were swept by eventual NBA champions Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round.
Related: Jaren Jackson Jr. Sends Clear Message About Future With Grizzlies
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 13, 2025, where it first appeared.
Category: Basketball
