Memphis Grizzlies' towering new rookie, Zach Edey, found himself in an unlikely and frustrating pre-season showdown—not on the basketball court, but at a bustling airport security checkpoint.
The 7-foot-4-inch centre, the No. 9 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, was pulled aside for an extended security screening at Chicago O'Hare International Airport, an ordeal that caused him to miss his scheduled flight.
Edey took to social media platform X to share his bizarre experience with his growing fanbase. The former Purdue standout revealed he was detained for a significant period, forcing him to rebook on a later flight.
A Giant Problem in Airport Security
The incident highlights a recurring theme for athletes of exceptional size, who often face heightened scrutiny and logistical nightmares when navigating commercial air travel. Their unique physique and stature can frequently trigger additional security protocols.
Edey's social media post quickly garnered sympathy and amusement from fans and followers, with many noting the irony of a high-profile athlete being held up for a security check.
From College Star to NBA Rookie
The Canadian-born player is transitioning to professional basketball after a dominant collegiate career at Purdue University, where he was a two-time National Player of the Year. His move to the Memphis Grizzlies is one of the most anticipated rookie transitions of the season.
This airport delay serves as an unconventional welcome to the demanding life of an NBA professional, where hectic travel schedules are the norm. The Grizzlies and their fans will be hoping this is the last off-court delay Edey experiences as he prepares for his debut season.
