Ty Jerome kicked off the new season with a bang, scoring a career-high 45 points in the Memphis Grizzlies’ season-opening win over the Utah Jazz. 

To the casual fan, this might seem like a random one-night outburst, but this is hardly surprising to those who are familiar with what Jerome has done over the past few years. He is finally getting a full runway and is locked in as a full-time starter for the Grizzlies, hitting several tough shots and making them look easy.

The 29-year-old guard shot 17-of-25 from the field, including 5-of-10 from three-point range, made six of seven free throws and added seven rebounds and six assists in their 123-103 victory to kick off the ‘26-’27 campaign. His 45 points are the most by a Memphis player in a season opener, passing his predecessor, Ja Morant, who scored 44 on opening night last 2020.

Jerome’s opportunity directly comes following the departure of Morant who was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers. The deal brought back Jerami Grant and Kris Murray to the Grizzlies and left the starting point guard job to Jerome.

While his rise may seem astronomical, it has actually been quite gradual. He spent 2024-25 as the top reserve for the Cleveland Cavaliers, finishing third in Sixth Man of the Year voting while averaging 12.5 points and 3.4 assists in 19.9 minutes over 70 games in what proved to be his breakout campaign. His previous career high of 33 points came that season in January of 2025. 

He joined Memphis via free agency last season, signing a three-year $28 million contract, but suffered a high-grade calf strain in their final preseason game. He ultimately played only 15 games, all as a starter, averaging 19.7 points and 5.7 assists in 22.6 minutes.

In the season opener, Jerome picked up from where he left off. He scored 13 points in the first quarter and 19 by halftime, then added 26 in the second half. The Grizzlies opened the third quarter on an 18-4 run to go up by 27 points, 82-55. The margin stayed at 15 or more throughout the fourth quarter as they cruised to victory.

The game was supposed to be a rookie showcase featuring Darryn Peterson, Utah’s No. 2 pick, and Memphis’ Cameron Boozer, whom the Grizzlies took next. Instead, it turned into the most memorable night of Jerome’s career so far.

The Grizzlies aren’t expected to contend for a title anytime soon, but if Jerome keeps this up, they could crash the West’s play-in race as a surprise contender. He has waited a long time for this shot and now he gets to prove that he belongs.