Jeremy Morgan headed to Memphis for better deal

The Memphis Grizzlies wanted former Northern Iowa and Iowa City West standout Jeremy Morgan's services more than the Golden State Warriors.

So, after an initial report that Morgan would play for the defending champion Warriors in the NBA's summer league, Morgan said Tuesday things have changed.

'I'm actually going down to Memphis now,' Morgan said. 'They had a better offer from my agent's and my point of view.

'I actually head down there (Wednesday) to get acquainted with their coaching staff and their facilities a few days before the summer league starts. I'm very excited to get down there and I'm thankful for the opportunity.'

A team official told The Gazette that while the deal remains unofficial, Memphis' offer to Morgan would include an undetermined amount of guaranteed money, an invite to training camp and a spot on Memphis' G-League affiliate, the Memphis Hustle.

The Hustle's roster also includes another familiar face to Eastern Iowans — former Northern Iowa and Cedar Rapids Washington standout Wes Washpun. Washpun will be on the Hustle's roster after playing the 2016-17 season with now former Memphis G-League affiliate Iowa Energy.

Morgan's Memphis deal will not include a two-way contract, at least not to begin with. A two-way contract allows NBA teams to use two of their 17 roster spots for a young player who will spend much of their season in the G-League. Official contract details likely will be available later this week when Morgan said he will put pen to paper.

It will be an uphill battle for Morgan to make the Grizzlies NBA roster. During a pre-draft workout tour that encompassed five different teams, Morgan said there was a common theme. There are aspects of his game teams like and areas they want to see him improve.

'They all told me I needed to keep working on my ball handling,' Morgan said. 'Keep getting a little bigger and stronger.

'Also, they told me the things I did well — shooting, competing hard, good (communication) on the court. Keep working on my strengths and also try to make my weaknesses strengths as well.'