The Memphis Grizzlies extended Cam Spencer’s contract to four years with a $10.5 million deal, just over a year after drafting him 35th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft. Spencer’s journey began on a two-way contract, and through persistent growth, he has become an essential contributor to the team’s success. This new deal is a testament to his rising value within the organization.
Spencer faced multiple setbacks, including a sprained right ankle during the summer league that sidelined him until late November, followed by a fractured left thumb that kept him out from early January to early March. Despite these injuries, he carved out a role recognized for his shooting, defensive intensity, and competitiveness, highlighted by a breakout performance during the Grizzlies’ comeback victory over the Phoenix Suns on March 10.
Following increased cap space from the trade of Jay Huff and the buyout of Cole Anthony, the Grizzlies moved quickly to convert Spencer’s deal from two to four years, reflecting confidence in his development and future impact.
Spencer Shares Gratitude and Motivation After His Extension
In an exclusive interview, Cam Spencer expressed deep appreciation for the franchise and those who supported him during his progression.
“I’m super excited. There’s no other organization that I’d rather compete with. I’m super grateful. It makes you think about all of the people that helped you get to this point. But I’m more motivated than ever. I told Zach [Kleiman] that I’m going to prove him right every single day. I’m going to get after it for him.”
—Cam Spencer, Memphis Grizzlies guard
When asked what proving Kleiman right means to him, Spencer emphasized his focus on winning and contributing in any way needed.
“Success on the court. Winning. That’s what we get paid to do. That’s our job. That’s all I care about. So whatever the team needs from me to win games is all I care about.”
—Cam Spencer, Memphis Grizzlies guard
Spencer also credited his close-knit family for laying the foundation that led him to the NBA.
“All of my family – brothers, parents, cousins, uncles, aunts, my grandparents. I just have such a great family that gave me the foundation to go work hard and have success. I’m just truly appreciative of them and all of their support. Without them, I would not be here.”
—Cam Spencer, Memphis Grizzlies guard
Overcoming Adversity and Injury Challenges
Cam Spencer’s rise was not without trials. Initially signed on a two-way contract, he battled to prove himself, enduring injuries that could have derailed his career. He highlighted the importance of resilience and consistency in overcoming adversity.
“I just think it’s all about how you deal with adversity. It’s just the way that I was raised. You have to go out and earn everything that you want in life. You have to earn it every single day. Nothing is going to be given to you. I think life is all about how you respond to those adverse situations. That’s where you get to see what you’re made of. I think if you dig deep and believe in yourself, then you can accomplish anything.”
—Cam Spencer, Memphis Grizzlies guard
Regarding his frustrating time sidelined with injuries, Spencer reflected on the emotional and physical strain, alongside the appreciation that returned when healthy.
“It was frustrating, man. As a competitor, those are honestly the longest days of my life. I’ve had a couple of surgeries in my career. It just sucked not being able to play the game you love and have to watch from the sidelines. It’s one of the worst feelings in the world. That part sucked. But the advantage is when you come back, you truly are appreciative of every day you get to spend on the court. You try to take advantage of it.”
—Cam Spencer, Memphis Grizzlies guard
Clutch Performance and Competitive Spirit
Spencer recalled his readiness to step up during the Grizzlies’ comeback victory against the Suns, where injuries among teammates gave him a chance to contribute significantly.
“I’m just a natural competitor. I want to compete against the best. I’m not going to back down from anybody. So I think a couple of guys were injured that night, and my number got called. That’s why you practice so hard so that you can be ready for the moment when it comes. The natural competitor in you takes over in those moments.”
—Cam Spencer, Memphis Grizzlies guard
He explained his calm approach while making two game-winning free throws during the high-pressure situation.
“It’s all about focus. Where is your focus during those moments? When I practice free throws, every free throw that I take matters. So when you get to those moments, it’s second nature. You just rely on your routine and you just trust the work that you put in. You plan on making it.”
—Cam Spencer, Memphis Grizzlies guard
Spencer also revealed what sparked a brief trash talk exchange with Kevin Durant in that game following a clutch three-pointer.
“Two competitors going at it, man. It was a heated game. We had gone on a little bit of a run. There was a specific play that got the trash talking going. But I have nothing but respect for KD and all that he has accomplished. But in the moment, I’m a competitor and I’m trying to win. So I don’t really care who we’re playing against. I credit my teammates for finding me in the corner. But I was just happy that we won the game. That’s all I care about. I have nothing but respect for KD.”
—Cam Spencer, Memphis Grizzlies guard
When pressed about the content of the trash talk, Spencer laughed and maintained it would remain private out of respect.
“That stays on the court. Trash-talking stays on the court. Out of respect, that just stays between the lines.”
—Cam Spencer, Memphis Grizzlies guard
Family Influence and Competitive Nature
Spencer credited growing up with older brothers, especially Pat Spencer, as a major influence on his competitive drive and resilience on and off the court.
“I grew up with two brothers, man. I got my ass kicked a lot by my older brother. He’s four years older than me. So growing up, that’s a lot of years. There was a lot of losing. So I had to get up and get off my butt and get back at it and try again. It’s just a natural competitor in you. I want to compete against the best.”
—Cam Spencer, Memphis Grizzlies guard
The sibling rivalry often extended beyond friendly competition, with Spencer describing their battles with humor.
“We always had words. We’d be lucky if we could finish the game without fighting. That’s typically how it ended. Somebody was throwing the ball at the other one. I wouldn’t be here without my older brother. I want to say that, for sure.”
—Cam Spencer, Memphis Grizzlies guard
Pat’s journey from lacrosse player to professional basketball has been a source of inspiration for Cam, demonstrating perseverance in the face of challenges.
“We’re four years apart. So when he got to high school, I was able to learn from his high school years. He went to college before me. I got to learn from those years. He’s just been a great role model for me with hard work and dealing with adversity. He’s had a unique journey himself. For him to still be standing tall and doing what he’s doing is very inspiring. Pat has had to go through a lot himself. Being able to watch as a younger brother motivates me. I think that is the DNA of our family. We want to earn everything. We’re very hard-working people.”
—Cam Spencer, Memphis Grizzlies guard
Pat’s path included shifting from lacrosse to basketball, multiple moves through college and professional opportunities, and overcoming injuries.
“He started off at Northwestern and played a year of college basketball after four years of lacrosse. He was known as ‘the lacrosse player.’ He had to fight that narrative. He still fights that narrative to this day. He went overseas. He went to the G League on a regular contract. He moves up to Exhibit 10. He went to Summer League. He wound up getting a two-way [contract] with the Warriors. He had hip surgery. Then he got converted at the end of last year. That journey, man, I wouldn’t be here without him. He’s been such a great role model for me.”
—Cam Spencer, Memphis Grizzlies guard
Ja Morant’s ‘Psycho’ Label and Team Dynamics
When asked about Ja Morant calling him a “psycho,” Spencer laughed and embraced the label, acknowledging his intensity on the court differs from his off-court self.
“That’s true, for sure. I don’t try to deny that. I’m crazy in my own way, for sure. But I think I have multiple personality disorder. I’m somebody that is different on and off the court. It’s two different people.”
—Cam Spencer, Memphis Grizzlies guard
Spencer also discussed how newly appointed head coach Tuomas Iisalo’s leadership and communication have contributed to the team’s positive momentum entering the new season.
Spencer highlighted the team’s close-knit culture and the importance of overcoming recent injury struggles as they prepare to compete in the fierce Western Conference.
“I like it. As a competitor, you want to play against the best. Obviously, you’re not going to have any nights off when you’re playing a Western Conference team, or in the NBA in general. These guys are good. So you have to bring it every night. I think that raises your level as a team. I think we have a great culture and a great team going into next year.”
—Cam Spencer, Memphis Grizzlies guard
He emphasized team unity and remaining healthy as essential to sustaining success.
“It’ll take connectedness. I think we have a great, really close-knit group. We’ve obviously had to battle injuries last year. The last few years, the organization also dealt with some injuries. So I think staying healthy is one of the main things. Coach Tuomas [Iisalo] coming in, I think we have a lot of momentum going into this year. He’s been great. He’s a super-smart coach and very personable as a player. He really communicates what he wants from us out there on the court. I think we’re all going to be on the same page in a big way this year.”
—Cam Spencer, Memphis Grizzlies guard
Responding to the Desmond Bane Trade
Spencer expressed his initial shock to the trade of Desmond Bane but reaffirmed his respect and close relationship with the veteran star.
“It was obviously shocking at first. Dez is the ultimate pro, man. Right when I got to Memphis, he took me under his wing. He’s a great leader for our team and for our organization. I have nothing but love and respect for him. I’m actually going to work out with his trainer right after [Summer League]. Dez and I will always have that relationship.”
—Cam Spencer, Memphis Grizzlies guard
He elaborated on how Bane’s mentorship helped him adjust as a young player transitioning to the NBA.
“Obviously with being five or six years in the league, he helped with letting me know what to expect. Obviously, it’s a different game from college. So there’s little details about the game on the court. Off the court, he’s about taking care of your body and how to be an ultimate pro. Those are a lot of those things that he taught me.”
—Cam Spencer, Memphis Grizzlies guard
Learning from Team Leaders Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr.
Spencer credited the basketball IQ and mentorship from superstar teammates Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. as invaluable to his development.
“They’re tremendous. They are such smart basketball players that I think they might get overlooked. They’re so athletic and capable on the court. But the way JJ sees the game defensively and the way that Ja sees the game in the pick-and-roll, there are little things that they’ll talk to me about. Their knowledge of the game is second-to-none. They taught me so much on the court.”
—Cam Spencer, Memphis Grizzlies guard
The Road Ahead for the Grizzlies
Looking forward, Spencer expressed optimism about the Grizzlies’ position in the Western Conference. He stressed the importance of strong team chemistry, resilience, and leadership under coach Iisalo for the upcoming season. Spencer’s steady growth and commitment exemplify the team’s focus on maintaining competitiveness in a highly challenging conference.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What is Desmond Bane’s real name?
A. Desmond Michael Bane, born on June 25, 1998, is an American basketball player. He plays professionally for the NBA’s Orlando Magic. Before joining the NBA, he played college basketball for the TCU Horned Frogs.