“I have full confidence in Tuomas serving as head coach of the Memphis Grizzlies going forward. Tuomas’ teams at every level have been disciplined, tenacious, and connected on both ends of the floor, consistently exceeding expectations.” – Grizzlies GM Zach Kleiman
On May 2, 2025, the Memphis Grizzlies officially appointed Tuomas Iisalo as their head coach, removing his interim status after a brief tenure. Iisalo took over on March 28 following the dismissal of former head coach Taylor Jenkins, who left with a 44–29 record and is the franchise’s winningest coach. Under Iisalo, the team concluded the season with a 48–34 record and secured a playoff berth through the play-in tournament but were swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round. At 42, Iisalo becomes the first NBA head coach born in Finland. He joined the Grizzlies as an assistant before the 2024 season after being named EuroCup Coach of the Year while coaching Paris Basketball. Grizzlies general manager Zach Kleiman praised Iisalo’s disciplined and tenacious coaching style and expressed optimism about the team’s future under his leadership. ([Reuters][1])
In a statement, Kleiman expressed his full confidence in Iisalo’s ability to lead the team going forward. He highlighted Iisalo’s track record of developing disciplined, tenacious, and connected teams at every level, consistently exceeding expectations. Kleiman emphasized that Iisalo’s coaching philosophy aligns with the Grizzlies’ core values and vision for the future. He also mentioned that Iisalo’s experience and success in Europe, including winning the EuroCup and being named Coach of the Year, were key factors in the decision to appoint him as head coach. Kleiman expressed confidence that Iisalo’s leadership would help the Grizzlies continue to build on their success and compete at a high level in the NBA.
Iisalo’s appointment marks a significant moment in NBA history, as he becomes the first Finnish-born head coach in the league. His journey from a successful playing career in Finland to coaching in Europe and now leading an NBA team is a testament to his dedication and expertise in the sport. With a strong coaching background and a clear vision for the team’s development, Iisalo is poised to guide the Grizzlies into the next chapter of their franchise history.([nypost.com][2])
**Tuomas Iisalo: A New Era for the Memphis Grizzlies**
On May 2, 2025, the Memphis Grizzlies officially appointed Tuomas Iisalo as their head coach, elevating him from his interim role and making him the first Finnish-born head coach in NBA history. This decision marks a significant shift for the franchise, which had previously been led by Taylor Jenkins, the winningest coach in Grizzlies history. Jenkins was unexpectedly dismissed in late March despite a 44–29 record and a fifth-place finish in the Western Conference. ([New York Post][1])
**A Storied Coaching Journey**
Before joining the Grizzlies, Iisalo had an illustrious coaching career in Europe. He led Paris Basketball to the 2023–24 EuroCup championship, earning EuroCup Coach of the Year honors. His coaching accolades also include the 2023–24 French League Cup title and the 2024 LNB Pro A Coach of the Year award. In total, Iisalo has been named Coach of the Year in three different leagues: the Bundesliga (2022, 2023), the Champions League (2023), and the EuroCup (2024). ([New York Post][1], [Wikipedia][2], [The Daily Helmsman][3])
**Coaching Philosophy and Impact**
Iisalo’s coaching philosophy emphasizes disciplined defense, tenacious rebounding, and a connected team dynamic. His offensive strategies often focus on pace and spacing, encouraging players to crash the boards and create second-chance opportunities. This approach aligns with the Grizzlies’ emphasis on aggressive defense and fast-paced offense. ([Athlon Sports][4])
During his brief tenure as interim head coach, Iisalo led the Grizzlies to a 4–5 record, guiding them through the Play-In Tournament and securing a playoff berth. Despite a first-round sweep by the Oklahoma City Thunder, the experience provided valuable insights into the team’s dynamics under pressure. ([New York Post][1], [Reuters][5])
**Looking Ahead**
With the core of Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Desmond Bane returning, Iisalo faces the challenge of leading the Grizzlies in a competitive Western Conference. The team’s management, led by general manager Zach Kleiman, has expressed full confidence in Iisalo’s ability to guide the franchise forward. Kleiman’s endorsement underscores the organization’s belief in Iisalo’s vision and leadership. ([New York Post][1], [Diario AS][6])
As Iisalo embarks on this new chapter, his blend of international experience and innovative coaching methods positions the Grizzlies for potential success in the seasons to come.
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