B-U grad Tanner McGrew makes Memphis Hustle roster

The Memphis Hustle, the NBA G League affiliate of the Memphis Grizzlies, has finalized its opening night roster for the 2018-19 season, the team announced recently, and it includes two names familiar to local basketball aficionados — Buckhannon-Upshur High School graduate Tanner McGrew and former WVU star Jevon Carter.

McGrew graduated from B-UHS before going on to play at West Virginia Wesleyan College, where he walked on under coach Patrick Beilein.

But McGrew really flourished once Gary Nottingham took over as head coach and the local Buckhannon player became the centerpiece of the Bobcat offense. The 6-foot-8 forward was a two-time first team all-conference selection and finished among the top rebounders in the nation his senior year at Wesleyan.

“Wesleyan allowed me to show that I can play and grow as an individual,” McGrew told the college. “Being a Division II guy showed me the amount of work it takes on my end to be successful. The support from my Wesleyan family has been crazy and I can’t thank everyone enough for being on my side.”

Upon graduation, McGrew continued his basketball career by playing professionally overseas, joining teams in Australia, Denmark and France.

“There are low level leagues and high level leagues, so this was a chance for me to make a leap into a high tier of basketball and really grow as a professional,” McGrew told the college. “I never thought I would play G league, but God kind of has a funny way of putting you in situations that you can grow from.

“I never want to be content, so this season is all about growth for me, just as every season is. I am looking forward to the grind and really hope to have as much success as possible both individually and as a team. Basketball is my life right now and I wouldn’t have it any other way!”

Carter, meanwhile, is bouncing back-and-forth between the Hustle and the Grizzlies. The second-round pick was recalled from the G League just over a week after he was assigned there, but Carter is still expected to spend at least part of his rookie season developing his skills with the Hustle.

The Memphis Grizzlies also have another West Virginia connection — Buckhannon native Chris Wallace is the team’s general manager.

The complete opening night roster for the Hustle can be seen below. The Hustle open the season Saturday, Nov. 3 at the Rio Grande Valley Vipers.