David Fizdale
Former Memphis Grizzlies head coach (2016–2017)
David Sean Fizdale (born June 16, 1974) is an American professional basketball coach who last was an assistant coach for the Phoenix Suns of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He previously was an associate general manager for the Utah Jazz, an assistant coach for the Los Angeles Lakers, the head coach for the New York Knicks and Memphis Grizzlies, and was an assistant coach for the Atlanta Hawks, Golden State Warriors and the Miami Heat. He won two championships with the Heat in 2012 and 2013.
- Role
- Head Coach
- Affiliation
- Memphis Grizzlies
- Years with Team
- 2016–2020
- Status
- Former Head Coach
- Key Achievement
- NBA Coach of the Year Runner-up (2017)
- Previous Role
- Assistant Coach under Lionel Hollins
Lore & Background
Fizdale was named head coach of the Memphis Grizzlies on May 29, 2016. He led the Grizzlies to a 43–39 record in the 2016–17 season, reaching the Western Conference playoffs. After a 7–12 start to the 2017–18 season, including eight consecutive losses, and a publicized fourth-quarter benching of Marc Gasol, Fizdale was fired on November 27, 2017.
In Their Own Story
The air inside FedExForum is thick with anticipation as the clock ticks down in Game 4. David Fizdale stands at the sideline, eyes locked on Marc Gasol, who has just secured a crucial rebound. There is no shouting, only a steady nod—a silent language developed over years of shared struggle and triumph. In that moment, the coach isn't just directing plays; he is channeling the collective spirit of Grind City, turning a defensive stop into the heartbeat of a championship push.
Reader's Guide
Fizdale's head coaching record with Memphis: 82 games (43–39) in 2016–17, reaching playoffs and losing in the first round; 19 games (7–12) in 2017–18 before being fired. Overall NBA head coaching record: 205 games, 71–134.
Did You Know?
- Fizdale won two NBA championships as an assistant coach with the Miami Heat in 2012 and 2013.
- He coached 'Team Shaq' at the 2013 Rising Stars Challenge during NBA All-Star Weekend.
- Fizdale graduated from the University of San Diego with a B.A. in communications and a minor in sociology.
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Elsewhere in the Memphis Grizzlies universe
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