Rebuilding their roster, the Memphis Grizzlies persisted. With the 48th overall selection in the 2025 NBA Draft, the squad has chosen Javon Small of West Virginia.
After No. 11 overall pick Cedric Coward, Memphis adds Small as their second rookie of the year.
Although he isn’t expected to get significant playing time anytime soon, the Grizzlies have an intriguing backup plan in Small thanks to his ability to make his own shots and contribute on defence and offence.
Javon Small joins the Memphis Grizzlies’ backcourt
Javon Small’s journey to the NBA was anything but traditional.
A four-year college player across three schools, Small took the scenic route to draft night and made sure he left a mark at every stop.
Now, after a breakout senior season at West Virginia, the 6-foot-1 Indiana native is headed to Memphis to join a backcourt loaded with talent.
In the second round, with the 48th choice, the Memphis Grizzlies chose Small. Along with Scotty Pippen Jr. and Cole Anthony, he joins a group that will be supporting franchise star Ja Morant.
While his playing time may be limited early, Small’s impact could grow quickly if his production translates to the next level.
Small was one of the most productive guards in the NCAA during the 2024–25 season.
In 32 games for the Mountaineers, he averaged 18.6 points, 5.6 assists, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.5 steals, earning All-Big 12 First Team honors and an AP All-American Honorable Mention.
Despite being slightly undersized (190 pounds) for an NBA combo guard, Small made up for it with elite athleticism.
He boasts a vertical leap of over 40 inches and a fearlessness in key moments.
Among his standout performances at West Virginia:
– Scored 31 points against Gonzaga at the Battle 4 Atlantis tournament.
– Hit the game-winning free throw to upset Kansas, delivering in crunch time against one of the top programs in college basketball.
– Poured in 12 points in the final two minutes to seal a dramatic comeback victory over Iowa State.
As a senior, he displayed a well-rounded offensive game, which included solid playmaking and the capacity to knock difficult shots under duress, while also shooting a respectable 35.3% from beyond the arc.
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