The Memphis Grizzlies today announced that the team has signed guard Xavier Munford to a 10-day contract as a Call-Up from the NBA Development League's Bakersfield Jam and pursuant to the NBA's hardship roster rules. "I'm honored and blessed for the opportunity to play for a great basketball team, and I'm going to make the best of my opportunity," said Munford. "I'm also thankful to my Bakersfield Jam coaches and teammates for their support, and for putting me in a position to succeed." Munford (6-3, 180) has appeared in 41 games (37 starts) for Bakersfield and averaged 20.4 points (.490 FG/.412 3P/.811 FT), 4.2 rebounds, 6.4 assists and 1.00 steals in 33.7 minutes. A 2016 D-League All-Star, he ranks sixth among qualifying players in assists per game and 11th in scoring average. "We couldn't be happier for Xavier because he's had to prove himself every single step of the way," said Jam General Manager Bubba Burrage. "From high school to JUCO (junior college) to college and to the NBA D-League, he just keeps improving. He's stayed the course and he's finally seeing his goals become a reality, and when that happens it's a great day for everyone with the Jam. It's just awesome to be a part of." The 23-year-old has played 89 career games (53 starts) over two seasons with the Jam and averaged 15.2 points (.475 FG/.366 3P/.796 FT), 3.7 rebounds and 4.5 assists in 27.3 minutes. He helped guide Bakersfield to the D-League Playoffs in 2015 and averaged 22.0 points, 4.7 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 2.33 steals in 38.0 minutes over three postseason games. "It's great to see Xavier be rewarded for his excellent play throughout the year," said Jam Head Coach Chris Jent. "Everyone on the team is genuinely excited for Xavier and we will all be watching him closely in Memphis." Undrafted in the 2014 Draft, Munford transferred to the University of Rhode Island as a junior and completed his collegiate career with averages of 17.1 points, 3.4 rebounds and 2.2 assists in 35.5 minutes in 61 games (all starts) over two seasons. The New Jersey native led the Rams in scoring in each of his two years with the program. Press release
