Memphis Grizzlies: Top 10 NBA Draft picks in franchise history

7. Hakim Warrick (PF) — No. 19 pick in 2005 NBA Draft

Career stats (with the Grizzlies, 2005-09):  307 GP, 10.2 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 0.7 APG, 0.5 SPG, 0.4 BPG, 50.0 FG%, 22.8 3P%, 72.5 FT%

Hakim Warrick is known for his big block in the 2003 NCAA championship game. However, he managed to develop a decent NBA career as an athletic, efficient power forward. His best seasons were his first four in Memphis.

Warrick’s career started off as modest. He averaged 10.6 minutes per game in 68 appearances his rookie season. That lack of playing time didn’t keep him from being recognized, though. His well-renowned hops earned him a spot in the 2006 Slam Dunk Contest. Warrick managed to place third.

Warrick received his biggest role of his career the next year. In 2006-07, he played 82 games, starting 43 of them. He averaged career highs in minutes (26.2), points (12.7) and rebounds per game (5.1). He also shot a career-high 52.4 percent from the field.

Warrick’s production smoothed out over the next two seasons. He averaged 11.5 points and 4.9 rebounds per game in 157 appearances over that span. His starts dropped each year, going from 30 in 2007-08 to seven in 2008-09.

Warrick chose to play elsewhere in the summer of 2009, signing a one-year deal with the Milwaukee Bucks. He would then play for four more teams over the following four seasons.

Hakim Warrick leaves the franchise standing second among all Grizzlies in field goal percentage (50 percent). His athleticism is what most people remember. However, he held on in the league because of his efficiency as a scorer and rebounder.