Zach Randolph's No. 50 to be retired by Memphis Grizzlies

The Memphis Grizzlies showed their appreciation to Zach Randolph on Thursday by announcing that the veteran forward/center will be the first player in franchise history to have his No. 50 jersey retired.

The Grizzlies announced the move in an open letter to Randolph, two days removed from the two-time All-Star ending his eight-year tenure with the club by agreeing to a two-year, $24 million deal with the Sacramento Kings.

"Thank you for all the joy and magical moments too numerous to count," the letter read in part. "Thank you for the energy and excitement you brought each and every night to FedExForum. Thank you for your leadership and service. Thank you for your larger than life impact and for keeping all Memphians warm. Thank you."

The open letter was signed by general manager Chris Wallace and president of business operations Jason Wexler.

Majority owner Robert Pera stated on the team's official Twitter account that No. 50 "will never be worn by another member of the Memphis Grizzlies." He also thanked Randolph for helping "turn a lottery team into a perennial playoff contender" and helping "make a basketball team a model of community service."

Randolph ranks first in franchise history in rebounds (5,612) and is second behind Mike Conley in points (9,261). The 35-year-old excelled in a reserve role last season, averaging 14.1 points and 8.2 rebounds.

With Sacramento, Randolph reunites with Dave Joerger, his former coach with the Grizzlies.