The Memphis Grizzlies have signed rookie second-round pick Richie Saunders to a two-way contract, the team announced on Nov. 7. Center Carson Cooper was waived to make room.
Saunders was drafted No. 32 overall by the Grizzlies in the 2026 NBA Draft. The 6-foot-5 wing from BYU was touted as one of the best shooters in his draft class.
A torn right ACL in February ended Saunders' last collegiate season early, and delayed the start to his NBA career. Now that he's progressing toward doing more on-court activities, he'll be allowed to practice with the Grizzlies.
Cooper appeared in one game with the Grizzlies. He scored his first point on a free throw and was given a game ball after the game.
Waiving Cooper means Zach Edey, Isaiah Stewart and Quinten Post are the only three centers on the roster. Stewart is currently out with a right knee injury. Memphis has used forwards Cam Boozer and Taylor Hendricks as options at center.
Damichael Cole is the Memphis Grizzlies beat writer for The Commercial Appeal. Contact Damichael at damichael.cole@commercialappeal.com. Follow Damichael on X, formerly known as Twitter, @DamichaelC.
This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Memphis Grizzlies sign rookie Richie Saunders, waive Carson Cooper