On Monday, Desmond Bane made his first career start as the Memphis Grizzlies hosted the Toronto Raptors, and the rookie turned in a strong effort during the 128-113 loss.
With Brandon Clarke injured, Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins opted to insert Bane into the starting lineup. Gorgui Dieng previously started for Clarke on Saturday, but Jenkins went with the 30th overall pick after a strong start to the season.
He responded by producing 13 points and three assists in 26 minutes of action, shooting 3-of-7 from 3-point range. He entered the contest ranked fifth among all players in 3-point percentage and had another strong shooting display on Monday.
Bane has emerged as a fan favorite to this point of the season and often received pleas from the Grizzlies faithful to be put into the starting lineup. While Memphis went on to lose, fans were happy to see Bane finally get his opportunity to start.
Lots of happy Grizz fans. Desmond Bane starting. First of his NBA career.
— Cassie Carlson (@CassieCarlsonTV) February 9, 2021
DESMOND BANE IS STARTING I REPEAT DESMOND BANE IS STARTING
— Made in Memphis (@MadeinMemphis1) February 9, 2021
Desmond Bane starting tonight for the first time in his career 🙌🙌
— Mavs Draft (@MavsDraft) February 9, 2021
I get to see Desmond Bane’s first nba start in person lfggg
— Zachary (@ZachTweetsBall) February 9, 2021
DESMOND BANE STARTING 5 pic.twitter.com/j8QTtrpdBl
— Hopeless Memphis (@hopelessmemphis) February 9, 2021
The change in the starting unit isn’t permanent with Clarke nursing a calf injury, but Bane’s presence can give the Grizzlies some floor spacing and another defender on the perimeter in the meantime.
Bane has emerged as a strong option this season for the Grizzlies in just his rookie season. His play has many anointing him the steal of the draft, and that may very well be the case to this point.
This post originally appeared on Rookie Wire! Follow us on Facebook!
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