I am deeply saddened by the tragic news that 34-year-old Lorenzen Wright was found dead outside his hometown of Memphis, Tennessee on Wednesday. The charismatic 13-year NBA veteran was my starting center when I coached the Grizzlies and he was an integral part of the team.
Lorenzen Wright #42 and Head Coach Mike Fratello of the Memphis Grizzlies celebrate after a close win against the Los Angeles Clippers on March 7, 2005 at the Staples Center in Los Angeles
Lorenzen whole-heartedly committed to the role we needed him to play, undertaking the gritty work of defending the post and rebounding the ball. Lorenzen did whatever we asked him to do, and he played hard every day. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
WHAT A BEAUTIFUL TRIBUTE TO REN. MAKES ME CRY EVERYTIME I SEE A PICTURE OF HIM SMILING OR LAUGHING B/C THAT IS THE WAY I REMEMBER HIM. IT IS A SAD TIME HERE IN MEMPHIS, FOR SURE.
Rest in peace brother. may u find peace in the arms of the heavenly father. miss u till we meet