Have the Grizzlies Ever Made it to the Western Conference Finals?

The Memphis Grizzlies, since their relocation to Memphis in 2001, have had a compelling journey in the NBA playoffs.

Let's take a look back into their performances in the Western Conference finals, analyzing their achievements, challenges, and memorable moments during those playoff runs.

The Early Years: 2004-2005

In the 2004 NBA season, under the guidance of head coach Hubie Brown, the Grizzlies made their first ever NBA playoffs appearance as the sixth seed in the Western Conference.

This marked a significant turnaround for the team, which had previously struggled to make an impact in the league. However, they faced a tough challenge against the San Antonio Spurs and were swiftly eliminated in a four-game sweep.

Historic Moments: 2010-2011

The 2010-2011 NBA playoffs marked a historic season for the Memphis Grizzlies. As the eighth seed, they achieved several firsts in franchise history, including their first playoff win and series victory.

Notably, they made history by becoming only the fourth team in NBA history to defeat a first seed as an eighth seed, and only the second time in a best-of-seven series.

Ongoing Struggles: 2012-2013

In the 2012-2013 season, the Grizzlies found themselves in the Western Conference finals, facing the San Antonio Spurs. Despite their efforts, the Grizzlies were swept by the Spurs, bringing an end to their playoff run.

The Rebuilding Phase: 2014-2015

During the 2014-2015 season, the Grizzlies secured a playoff spot as the fifth seed in the Western Conference.

They managed to advance past the first round by defeating the Portland Trail Blazers, but were ultimately eliminated in the second round by the Golden State Warriors, led by MVP Stephen Curry.

Recent Years: 2020 and Beyond

The 2020-21 NBA season saw the Grizzlies finish with the ninth best record in the Western Conference, earning them a spot in the play-in tournament.

They secured their place in the playoffs by winning two games in a row, only to face a challenging match-up against the Utah Jazz, the top seed in the league.

Despite upsetting the Jazz in the first game, the Grizzlies lost the series in five games.

The following season, the 2021-22 NBA season, proved to be more successful for the Grizzlies. They clinched their first division title in franchise history and secured the second seed in the Western Conference. But their journey was halted in the second round by the Golden State Warriors.

All in all, the Memphis Grizzlies have had a storied history in the NBA playoffs, marked by notable achievements, challenges, and memorable moments.

From their humble beginnings to their recent successes, the Grizzlies have continually showcased their resilience and determination on the court, leaving an indelible mark on the league's history.