The Knox County Parks and Recreation Department and the NBA’s Memphis Grizzlies have teamed up to create two local youth basketball leagues – the only programs of their kind in East Tennessee.

“I’m really excited that our young people have this unique opportunity,” Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs said. “This partnership illustrates the great work our Parks and Recreation Department does to encourage youth sports and recreation.” 

Knox County, the Memphis Grizzlies, the Jr NBA, and Nike have created a local recreational Junior Grizzlies Youth Basketball League, which will run a 10-game season from Dec. 3 through Feb. 10, for male and females ages 6 to 18. Teams will be comprised of athletes ages 6 to 12, middle school age, and high school age.

Registration costs $50 per player and is open now through Nov. 20. Players receive a reversible Nike uniform, an official Grizzlies basketball, and a signed certificate by a player on the Memphis Grizzlies.

“We are proud to be partnering with the Memphis Grizzlies, and we look forward to continuing their mission of creating long-lasting memories for our youth through the game of basketball,” said Knox County Parks and Recreation Senior Director Joe Mack.

Additionally, the county put together a Junior Grizzlies open league for teams that will feature a 10-game season, tournament, three-point shootout, and dunk contest. Team registration is $650, and the season runs from Dec. 3 to Feb. 10. Teams are comprised of 6u, 8u, 10u, 12u, middle school, and high school players. Athletes on the teams will also receive a reversible Nike uniform, an official Grizzlies basketball, and a signed certificate by a player on the Memphis Grizzlies.

To sign up, please go to https://knoxcountyparks.activityreg.com/selectactivity_t2.wcs?leaguesid=6

For any questions about the Junior Grizzlies League, contact Cain Clifton at cain.clifton@knoxcounty.org, and keep up to date with everything happening in Knox County Sports on the Knox County Parks and Recreation Facebook page.