Cedric Coward, a former Washington State standout, has officially signed his rookie scale contract with the Grizzlies, as reflected in the NBA’s official transaction log.
Coward’s final college season was cut short due to a shoulder injury after just six games with the Cougars during the 2024/25 campaign. Despite the limited action, he posted impressive numbers — 17.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.7 blocks per game — while shooting 55.7% from the field and 40.0% from beyond the arc.
Before transferring to Washington State, the 6-foot-6 wing spent two seasons at Eastern Washington, averaging 11.3 points and 6.1 rebounds across 66 games. He began his college journey at Willamette University in Oregon as a freshman.
The Grizzlies initially picked up the No. 16 overall selection through their Desmond Bane trade with Orlando. On draft night, they packaged a future first-rounder to move up five spots, ultimately selecting Coward at No. 11 overall.
Due to the lingering effects of his shoulder injury, Coward is considered doubtful for this month’s Summer League, though he’s on track to be ready for training camp.
Based on Hoops Rumors’ rookie scale projections, Coward is expected to earn $5.7 million in his first year, with his four-year deal totaling approximately $26.3 million.
Out of this year’s 30 first-round selections, 29 have now signed their rookie contracts. The lone exception is Drake Powell, the No. 22 pick, whose trade to Brooklyn was just completed Monday — making it likely he’ll round out the full set of 30 signings very soon.
