Desmond Bane Opens Up About Special Return to Memphis After Grizzlies Tenure

Former TCU basketball standout Desmond Bane returned to Memphis this past Wednesday night for an emotional preseason matchup against the Grizzlies, marking his first appearance at FedExForum since being traded to the Orlando Magic in June 2025.

Although the game carried no regular-season implications, the moment meant considerably more to Bane, who spent the first five seasons of his NBA career building a lasting connection with Memphis and its fans.

Bane acknowledged that the emotions began before he even entered the arena, reflecting on what it meant to return to a city where he experienced some of the most important moments of his career.

"It wasn't even walking in; it was when I drove back in the city and drove by the Forum… knowing that I'm playing in here today was a different feeling," Bane told reporters. "For the community to receive me the way that they have, special place… It's good to be back."

The reception demonstrated the impact Bane made during his time with the Grizzlies. Drafted 30th overall in 2020, the guard developed into one of the franchise's most reliable offensive weapons, becoming a key contributor alongside Ja Morant as Memphis established itself as a Western Conference contender.

Bane steadily improved throughout his tenure, eventually averaging a career-high 23.7 points per game during the 2023-24 season. His shooting ability, toughness and consistency made him a fan favorite before Memphis traded him to Orlando in a major deal that reshaped both franchises.

His return also served as a reminder of the relationships he developed with teammates. Grizzlies forward GG Jackson spoke fondly of Bane, describing the veteran guard as a mentor and an important figure in his development.

For TCU fans, Bane's continued success in the NBA is another reason to celebrate one of the program's most accomplished recent alumni. During his time in Fort Worth, he became a standout for the Horned Frogs, earning All-Big 12 recognition and establishing himself as one of the conference's premier perimeter shooters.

Bane's journey from TCU to becoming an established NBA starter highlights the development that helped make him a second-round draft success.

On Wednesday, Bane also delivered an efficient performance, making all three of his attempts from beyond the arc and finishing with nine points as Orlando defeated Memphis, 122-118.

The Magic will return to Memphis for a regular-season matchup on Feb. 10, giving Bane another opportunity to reconnect with the fan base that supported him throughout his early NBA career.

While Wednesday's game was only a preseason contest, Bane's words made clear that his connection with Memphis remains meaningful, even as he continues building the next chapter of his professional career in Orlando.