RealGM

As a far away (Seattle) observer I was just curious on what is bigger in Memphis? The Grizz or the Tigers? Thanks.

I´m almost sure that is the Tigers.

Tigers have a winning tradition. They are the foundation team. The Grizz don't match up. It will take playoff wins or a True Superstar.

The Tigers, easily. They have deep roots in the community and a winning tradition: it just happens that the Grizz came to town when the Tigers began a resurgence. IIRC Calipari signed on at the UofM the same year the Grizz announced the move.

The Tigers sell out the Forum against teams like Marist, 17,000+.

The Grizz may sell 10,000 tickets against the Lakers, and 5000 will be Laker fans.

Right now the Tigers are the heart of Memphis.

This past March, as a Tar Heel fan I was pretty down when Kansas boat raced us in the Semi's but when Memphis lost in the championship game half the town was on suicide watch. The city felt jilted again and the whole world saw how cruel the city of Memphis luck can run.

In contrast the Grizzlies misfortune and heartache have revolved around the lottery and not an actual game that the fan base can point to. Granted missing out on Lebron, and then Carmelo followed up with not having a shot at either Oden or Durant have been tough pills to swallow. But losing the championship game is like top five worst moments in the cities history, along with assassination of MLK and the death of Elvis to some.

^^ You said a mouth full.