From Pullman to Memphis!
Jaylen Wells has been selected with the 39th pick in the 2nd round of the 2024 NBA Draft by the Memphis Grizzlies.
After a breakout season that helped take Washington State to their first March Madness appearance in over a decade, the 20-year-old forward is off to Memphis to compete for an roster spot.
Wells journey to becoming a professional has been inspiring. He started at Division II Sonoma State and quickly proved to be one of the best shooters in the California Collegiate Athletic Association. His sharpshooting was enough to grab the attention of Kyle Smith and the Washington State coaching staff.
At WSU, Wells grinded his way into the starting rotation. He got his first chance in the starting lineup at the USC Trojans in January, scoring 17 points and playing 39 of the 40 minutes in the win and never looked back. Wells started every game for the Cougs after that with his magnum opus coming at the No. 4 Arizona Wildcats. He scored 27 points and knocked down six three-pointers with his final one being one of the biggest in WSU history to upset the Wildcats (on Neon Night!) at McKale Center.
Jaylen Wells! He buries the triple with the whistle to tie the game! Andrej scrapped for that offensive board and Wells delivered.#GoCougs // #CVE // @FS1 pic.twitter.com/rDgJgKGp8q
— Washington State Men’s Basketball (@WSUCougarsMBB) February 23, 2024
After helping get WSU into the big dance, he scored 17 points, cashing three of four treys against the Drake Bulldogs in the Round of 64 victory.
In Memphis, Wells should have a great chance to compete for an opening night roster spot as a wing. He will get his first chance to display his talents in his new colors when the Grizzlies take on the Utah Jazz on July 8th in the Salt Lake City Summer League.