Memphis Grizzlies: Top 10 NBA Draft picks in franchise history

2. Shane Battier (SF) — No. 6 pick in 2001 NBA Draft

Career stats (with the Grizzlies, 2001-06, 2011):  419 GP, 10.2 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 1.7 APG, 1.2 SPG, 1.0 BPG, 45.4 FG%, 37.9 3P%, 74.6 FT%

Shane Battier made a name for himself as a “3-and-D” player over 13 seasons in the NBA. That reputation developed in Memphis.

Battier instantly started at small forward under head coach Sidney Lowe. He played and started 78 games, averaging 14.4 points, 5.4 rebounds and 1.6 steals per game in 2001-02. Those numbers allowed him to earn All-Rookie First Team honors.

Memphis Grizzlies

However, his role changed in 2002-03. Lowe resigned and legendary coach and broadcaster Hubie Brown was brought in. Brown decided to move Battier out of the starting lineup and onto the bench as a sixth man. Battier still averaged 27.6 minutes per game in the two seasons helmed by Brown. However, he only made 48 starts in 157 games.

Brown stepped down 12 games into the 2004-05 season. He was eventually replaced by Mike Fratlello, another legendary coach and broadcaster. Under Fratello, Battier regained his starting role. He averaged 10.0 points, 5.2 rebounds, 1.1 steals and 1.2 blocks per game from 2004-06. Battier also shot 39.5 percent on 3-pointers and had a 102 defensive rating over that span.

Battier was traded to the Rockets in July 2006 in exchange for Stromile Swift and the rights to Rudy Gay. He would go on to make two All-Defensive Second Teams with the Rockets. He spent four and a half seasons in Houston before being traded back to Memphis in Feburary 2011.

Battier would sign with the Miami Heat in December 2011, eventually winning two NBA championships.

Battier made four playoff appearances with the Grizzlies, second-most among draftees. He is a name that is often brought up among great Grizzlies. But unlike many of the players on this list, he made his name as a defensive specialist.