Memphis Grizzlies center Zach Edey has been formally charged with reckless driving following an incident on May 1 where police reported he was driving at 101 mph in a 55 mph zone. The event took place on Indiana 25 in southern Tippecanoe County, Indiana, prompting legal action against the rookie player.
According to a probable cause affidavit detailed by Lafayette Journal & Courier’s Ron Wilkins, Edey was operating a northbound Kia Sorento when he overtook an Indiana State Police trooper driving southbound at 7:03 p.m. Central Time. After the trooper caught up and pulled him over, Edey reportedly told officers that he was attempting to pass a vehicle at the time.
Details of the Upcoming Court Hearing
The initial hearing addressing Edey’s misdemeanor reckless driving charge is scheduled for June 23 at 10:30 a.m. CT. This proceeding will be held at Tippecanoe Superior Court 6 in Indiana, marking the first formal step in the legal process stemming from the speeding violation.
Zach Edey’s Basketball Background and Early Career Highlights
Before joining the NBA, Zach Edey competed for Purdue University in Lafayette, Indiana, where he established himself as a dominant player. Over four seasons, he averaged 18.2 points and 9.6 rebounds per game. Recognized as the college player of the year consecutively in 2023 and 2024, Edey led the Boilermakers to the NCAA championship game during his senior season, with standout averages of 25.2 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game.
In the 2024 NBA draft, the Memphis Grizzlies selected Edey as the ninth overall pick. During his rookie season, he averaged 9.2 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game. His contributions earned him a place on the NBA All-Rookie first team and he finished fifth in Rookie of the Year voting.
Potential Implications and What to Watch Next
This reckless driving charge places a spotlight on Edey’s off-court conduct early in his professional career, possibly creating distractions for both him and the Memphis Grizzlies. How the team and Edey address this development could impact his focus and public image moving forward. The upcoming June court hearing will be critical in determining the legal outcome and any consequences related to the speeding violation.