Zach Edey, the 7-foot-4 center for the Memphis Grizzlies, has been charged with reckless driving following an alleged incident in which he was clocked traveling 101 mph in a 55-mph zone on Indiana 25. The incident, which occurred on May 1, has sparked discussions about the responsibilities of athletes beyond the court, especially when their actions have real-world consequences. According to reports, Edey was stopped by law enforcement and is set to appear in court in Tippecanoe County to address the charges. The court appearance is scheduled for next week, where the details of the incident will be formally presented.
Edey, who was the ninth overall pick in the NBA Draft, has already made significant contributions to the Grizzlies, earning a spot on the All-Rookie First Team. His performance in the league has been notable, with an average of 9.2 points and 8.3 rebounds per game. This achievement is a testament to his talents and hard work, especially considering the challenges he has faced since joining the league. However, his recent ankle surgery has raised questions about his readiness for the upcoming season. The surgery, which is meant to repair and restabilize his ankle, could result in him missing the start of the 2025-26 season, with his return evaluation scheduled in four months.
Despite his professional accomplishments, Edey’s personal life has come under scrutiny. The speeding incident is now another aspect of his public persona that will be closely watched. Edey has reportedly cited the need to pass another vehicle as his reason for speeding, which could provide context for the alleged actions. However, the legal consequences are still a concern. The Grizzlies have stated that they will evaluate Edey’s condition again in four months, just before the season’s start on October 21. This timeline has raised questions about how the team will manage his potential absence, given that his performance could be crucial to their success in the Western Conference.
In addition to the traffic charges, Edey’s performance in the previous season has been an area of focus. He missed 12 games in the early part of the season due to a sprained left ankle, but was able to play in 66 games, making 55 starts. His team, the Grizzlies, secured an eighth seed in the Western Conference, but faced early challenges, being swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round. The defeat has brought attention to the team’s performance and the expectations for the upcoming season. Given the circumstances surrounding Edey’s recent legal troubles and health issues, the focus will be on whether he can recover and return to the court in time for the new season.