Dave Joerger
The steady hand who guided the Grizzlies to their deepest playoff run of the modern era.
He took over following Lionel Hollins and was tasked with sustaining competitiveness while managing the transition from veteran leadership to emerging young talent.
- Role
- Head Coach
- Best Playoff Run
- Western Conference Finals (2019)
- Philosophy
- Defensive Structure and Discipline
- Key Players Managed
- Marc Gasol, Mike Conley, Ja Morant
Lore & Background
The defining moment of his coaching career occurred in the spring of 2019. Joerger orchestrated a historic playoff run that saw Memphis push the Golden State Warriors to six games in the Western Conference Finals. This achievement solidified his legacy as the coach who kept the franchise relevant on a national stage during a period when many predicted decline.
In Their Own Story
The arena hummed with tension, the hardwood gleaming under the bright lights of FedExForum. Joerger stood at the sideline, clipboard in hand, eyes scanning the court for any lapse in defensive rotation. It was Game Five of the Conference Finals; every possession mattered. He signaled a timeout, his voice calm amidst the roar of the crowd, reminding the players that discipline would outlast talent.
Reader's Guide
His tenure is defined by stability during a transitional period between eras. Under his leadership, the franchise maintained its defensive identity while integrating young talent like Jaren Jackson Jr. and Ja Morant into the rotation. Joerger’s signature achievement remains the 2019 Western Conference Finals appearance against the Golden State Warriors. This run showcased the team's resilience and tactical discipline under his direction. He managed to keep the competitive standard high even as the roster aged, guiding Memphis through multiple playoff berths before his departure in 2020. His lasting impact on franchise culture lies in bridging the gap between the veteran-led years and the new young core. Joerger established a professional tone that allowed future stars to develop within a structured system. While his time ended amidst difficult circumstances, he remains a pivotal figure in maintaining Grizzlies relevance during a volatile decade of NBA history.
Did You Know?
- He previously served as an assistant coach for the Atlanta Hawks under Mike Budenholzer before joining Memphis.
- Joerger was the head coach when Ja Morant was drafted by the franchise in 2019.
- His 2019 playoff run remains the deepest postseason appearance for the Grizzlies since arriving from Vancouver.