Is Grizzlies’ Ty Jerome the next Steve Nash? Bill Simmons wants to know

If you squint hard enough, Ty Jerome looks like a two-time MVP leading a high-octane offense.

The Memphis Grizzlies suffered their first defeat after falling to the New Orleans Pelicans by a point in overtime, 135-134, at FedExForum on Monday. Still, Jerome was quite impressive, delivering another prolific performance.

Jerome exploded for 40 points on 14-of-22 shooting, including 5-of-6 from three-point range in 37 minutes. He added five rebounds, five assists, and two steals.

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The Ringer's Bill Simmons could not help but compare the 29-year-old guard to Steve Nash .

"Is Ty Jerome now 2005 Steve Nash and headed for back-to-back MVPs?" asked Simmons on X.

Nash spearheaded the surge of the Phoenix Suns in the mid-2000s with his vision, shotmaking, and clutch gene. He helped revolutionize the game, making him one of the most esteemed playmakers in league history.

Nash broke out with the Suns after coach Mike D'Antoni handed him the keys. The same is happening to Jerome with coach Tuomas Iisalo on the Grizzlies , who have a 6-1 record.

Jerome is still making his case as a true superstar, but he has been incredibly exceptional for Memphis, averaging 28.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, 5.7 assists, and 1.2 steals.

While he is having a breakout campaign, it should not be surprising. He was a big-time player at Virginia, helping the team win a national title in 2019. He had a strong run with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2025, but the team could not afford to keep him, prompting Jerome to sign with the Grizzlies on a three-year, $28 million contract.

Memphis will face the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday.