Here’s the Memphis Commercial Appeal reporting on the Grizzlies and the advantages that come with having their own G League team. Of course, most NBA teams have this luxury now. But different teams are using their G League affiliates to different extents. As for the Grizzlies:
Additionally, the close-proximity model seen with the Grizzlies and the Hustle is becoming the norm. Grizzlies officials have lauded the geographical improvement. The Atlanta Hawks purchased the Erie BayHawks last year, and will move the team from Pennsylvania to College Park in Atlanta beginning next season. The Kings moved their affiliate to nearby Stockton, California, the Magic have a team in Lakeland, Florida, and the Clippers now have a G-League team in Ontario, less than an hour from Staples Center.
Amid a disappointing last season, the Grizzlies were able to make expedited use of two-way players Kobi Simmons and Myke Henry because of the Hustle’s location. Simmons ended up playing more games for the Grizzlies than the Hustle. All of this certainly bodes well for new two-way signing Yuta Watanabe, and it could potentially be helpful for other players.
