Cedric Cowherd says he’s not afraid of rookie wall – Basketball Insider
Memphis Grizzlies rookie Cedric Coward shrugs off concerns about hitting the so-called “rookie wall” this season. Coward didn’t hesitate when asked if he was worried fatigue would derail his first year. “No, I just fear God,” he said, Drew Hill reported. memphis daily. His short but bold answer quickly made headlines.
Cowherd, 22, has been one of the Grizzlies’ most unexpected bright spots this season. He was the No. 11 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft and started every game he played for Memphis. In his first 37 games, Cowherd averaged 14 points, 6.6 rebounds and 2.9 assists, showing scoring and playmaking abilities beyond his draft eligibility.
What a coward says about keeping it fresh
Coward offered a measured take when it came to the idea of a rookie wall. He acknowledged players may feel fatigue but insisted he would manage his preparation carefully. “If it comes, it comes. If it doesn’t come, it doesn’t come,” he said. “For me, it’s one game at a time and one practice at a time.”
Coward explained that he strives to maintain a consistent routine and focus on developing habits that will keep him active during the long NBA season. He said the greatest players are the ones who are reliable night after night, and he wants to emulate that mentality.
He also acknowledged that not every game is perfect. “There will be some games… where the games are not that good and the games are going really well,” Coward added. “To me, it’s just construction.”
Grizzlies rookie Cedric Cowherd was asked if he’s afraid of hitting the “rookie wall”…
The No. 11 pick in the Memphis draft averaged 14, 6 and 3 😤🔥
(pass @DrewHill_DM) pic.twitter.com/8k5VWeii1I
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) January 16, 2026
Cowherd’s journey to the NBA
Coward’s journey to the NBA has been extraordinary. He began his college career at Division III Willamette University before transferring to Eastern Washington State and later Washington State, where injuries limited his time. Despite the setback, he impressed scouts enough that Memphis took a chance on him late in the first round.
Just 10 games into the season, Coward has earned a regular spot in Memphis’ rotation, and he hasn’t relinquished it yet. His shooting efficiency and versatility helped the Grizzlies get through a season marked by injuries to other key players.
