Zach Edey, the 7-foot-3 center for the Memphis Grizzlies, was stopped by police in Indiana on May 1 for driving 101 mph in a 55 mph zone. The rookie was formally charged with reckless driving, sparking widespread attention due to both the extreme speed and the vehicle he was driving—a Kia Sorento.
This Zach Edey reckless driving Kia Sorento incident has caused a mix of surprise and amusement among basketball fans and the general public, highlighting an unusual event involving a rising NBA player.
Uncommon Vehicle Choice Sparks Conversation
The Kia Sorento, a mid-size family SUV, is not the typical car associated with NBA stars, many of whom prefer luxury or sports cars. Edey’s decision to drive this practical SUV has intrigued fans because of the contrast between his towering height and the vehicle’s modest reputation.
Social media quickly buzzed with reactions ranging from disbelief at the Sorento’s ability to reach such speeds to humorous comments about how Edey manages to fit inside the vehicle given his size. One fan remarked,
Never mind the 101 mph, Zach Edey fits inside a Kia Sorento??
while another joked,
I know it’s an SUV, but how the hell does Zach fit in a Kia Sorento lol.
Fans and Rivals Respond with Humor and Critique
The incident also brought lighthearted teasing from rival fans, especially those familiar with Edey’s college career at Purdue. Some took the moment to poke fun at his driving habits, with one fan playfully noting this might be
“the first confirmed instance of a Boilermaker driving sober.”
Others contributed with witty remarks reflecting basketball rivalries, including a comment that stated,
FOUL ON THE COP REF DO SOMETHING,
mirroring the tension found in competitive sports.
Strong Rookie Season Amplifies Public Interest
Before the incident, Zach Edey had been making a name for himself during his rookie NBA season. Playing 72 games and starting 21, he averaged 9.2 points and led his team with 8.3 rebounds per game. These stats put him 17th overall in the league for rebounds, underscoring his value to the Memphis Grizzlies and his rising star status.
The Incident’s Broader Implications
As Edey prepares to address the legal repercussions of his reckless driving charge, this episode highlights the unique challenges athletes often face beyond their professional careers. The incident humanizes a public figure widely known for his athleticism, reminding fans that sports stars also encounter personal hurdles and public scrutiny.
Though the speeding episode might become a minor anecdote in his basketball journey, it serves as a reflection on the responsibilities tied to fame and the consequences athletes must navigate. This moment offers Edey a chance to grow both as an individual and as a player in the public spotlight, emphasizing the importance of making careful choices on and off the court.