Grizzlies in talks with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar about joining staff

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Grizzlies in talks with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar about joining staff
By Ronald Tillery

The Grizzlies added star power to their roster in the offseason with Allen Iverson. Now, they might be on the verge of hiring a Hall of Famer for the coaching staff.

Legendary NBA center Kareem Abdul-Jabbar sat in on the Grizzlies' practice Monday morning. The NBA's all-time leading scorer will entertain joining the organization, several sources confirmed.

Grizzlies management had no comment about Abdul-Jabbar's presence. Memphis, however, asked for and received permission from the Los Angeles Lakers to speak with Abdul-Jabbar.

Abdul-Jabbar, 62, is under contract with the Lakers after having tutored Andrew Bynum over the past several seasons. But the Los Angeles Daily News reported earlier this month that Abdul-Jabbar's interaction with Bynum would decrease and he'd take a lesser role with the Lakers this season.

The Griz have three centers -- two of which are considered projects -- that could benefit from Abdul-Jabbar's knowledge and experience. Marc Gasol, Hamed Haddadi and rookie Hasheem Thabeet met Abdul-Jabbar for dinner Sunday night.

Abdul-Jabbar was to meet with Griz head coach Lionel Hollins Monday afternoon.

A source said it is premature to determine what -- if anything -- would happen with Abdul-Jabbar with regard to the Grizzlies. But resolution could come in a few days or before Abdul-Jabbar leaves this week for a speaking tour in the Middle East.

Abdul-Jabbar is credited with teaching Bynum post skills and footwork. Bynum grew into one of the brightest young centers in the NBA. Former Griz Pau Gasol also benefited from Abdul-Jabbar's influence while with the Lakers.

Former NBA center Tree Rollins worked with the Grizzlies as a consultant for about 45 days. Rollins left the team for personal reasons during the first week of training camp.

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