In a tightly contested game, former West Virginia University (WVU) guard Javon Small delivered a near career-best performance by scoring 21 points off the bench. The Memphis Grizzlies fell 123-114, but Small’s display of skill and efficiency stood out as a bright spot in the loss. His near career-high effort highlights Javon Small career-high scoring potential as he continues to develop in the NBA.
Efficient Shooting and All-Around Contributions
Small showed remarkable shooting accuracy, making six of eight field goal attempts and converting four of five from beyond the three-point line. Alongside his scoring, he contributed nine assists while committing only one turnover, and pulled down six rebounds. These efforts earned him the distinction of being named the Memphis Grizzlies’ Player of the Game for this matchup.
“Javon Small is tonight’s Player of the Game presented by @IntlPaperCo pic.twitter.com/kDK9cIwZBV”
— Memphis Grizzlies (@memgrizz)
Team Struggles and Small’s Role This Season
The loss dropped Memphis to a 21-35 record for the season, continuing a challenging period for the team. Despite the Grizzlies’ difficulties, Small has seen regular playing time, averaging about 16 minutes per game. This consistent opportunity reflects the franchise’s investment in his development following his selection as the 48th overall pick in the NBA Draft.
Background and Collegiate Achievements
During the 2024-25 college basketball season, Javon Small served as WVU’s starting point guard, steering the Mountaineers to a 19-12 record and narrowly missing an NCAA Tournament berth. Small concluded the season as the Big 12’s second-highest scorer, averaging 18.6 points per game, which earned him first-team All-Big 12 honors. He is among a select group of Mountaineers to break into the NBA, following players like Jevon Carter and Miles “Deuce” McBride.
Significance for West Virginia and Future Outlook
Small’s emergence in Memphis spotlights the ongoing presence of West Virginia’s talent in professional basketball, marking him as the third Mountaineer to be drafted since 2018. His growth could positively influence both his NBA career and the reputation of WVU’s basketball program. As Small gains experience, his near career-high scoring performance indicates potential for increased impact moving forward, providing a player to watch on the Grizzlies’ roster.
Javon Small is tonight’s Player of the Game presented by @IntlPaperCo pic.twitter.com/kDK9cIwZBV
— Memphis Grizzlies (@memgrizz) February 24, 2026
