Gasol's All-Star nod gives Memphis pride

It probably isn't a big deal to most NBA teams to have one of its players named to play in the All-Star game.

But for the Grizzlies, in their 17th season in the NBA (11 in Memphis), it definitely means something since they've only had three all-stars in their history and two have had the last name Gasol.

Gasol No. 2, Griz center Marc Gasol, was named a Western Conference all-star reserve on Thursday, a tremendous accomplishment for someone who was drafted by the Lakers in 2007 and immediately tossed aside.

"They (the Lakers) told me I could show up for training camp and we'll give you a practice jersey," said Gasol, who was traded to the Grizzlies in 2008 as part of the package in which the Lakers acquired Marc's older brother Pau. "They never told me I was going to be part of their team."

From day one with the Grizzlies, Marc showed he was physically tougher than his older brother and that he wouldn't back down from anybody. He worked tirelessly on his offensive game, and starting with last year's playoffs became a double-double weapon alongside fellow board banger Zach Randolph.

As soon as the player strike was settled, Gasol signed a 4-year, $58 million in December. So far this season, without the injured Randolph at his side since Jan. 1, Gasol has been worth every penny.

In Friday night's 98-92 Grizzlies' victory over the Pacers in FedExForum, Gasol clearly won his battle against Pacers' center Roy Hibbert, who was chosen an Eastern Conference all-star reserve. Gasol had 15 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 3 blocked shots compared to Hibbert's 5 points, 7 rebounds, 1 assists and no blocked shots.

This season, Gasol is averaging career highs in points (15), rebounds (10.2), assists (2.7) and blocks (2.23).

"Marc is starting to be more vocal, taking more ownership of the team, just playing more confident," Griz coach Lionel Hollins said. "I remember when he first got here, he wouldn't even shoot a jump shot, not even a turnaround jump shot in the post."

Gasol considers it an honor to represent the franchise and the city of Memphis, but is more concerned about getting the Griz back in the playoffs for a second straight year.

"I never dreamed about being an all-star," Gasol said. "My only goals have ever been are to win and make my teammates better."

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