The Memphis Grizzlies today announced that former Grizzlies Public Address Announcer John Paul Stevenson will return to Memphis as the team’s interim public address announcer for the 2016-17 season, beginning with the Oct. 3 preseason game vs. Orlando. Stevenson last served as the team’s full-time public address announcer from 2001-2006 before spending the last 10 seasons with the Houston Rockets.

“John Paul is an important figure in Memphis Grizzlies history,” said Jason Potter, director of content and live entertainment for the Memphis Grizzlies. “He completely understands the spirit of Grizz Nation and knows how to captivate not just any audience – but a Memphis audience - through the live experience.”

Stevenson added: “This is a special opportunity for me to return and be a part of a city and with an organization that I love. Being surrounded by old friends, and having the ability to give back to a community that embraced me and gave me their attention and affection makes this chance truly meaningful.”

While in Houston, he also served as the public address announcer for the 2013 NBA All-Star Game and was named ‘Best Stadium Announcer’ by Houston Press in 2013 and 2015 for the publication’s annual ‘Best of Houston’ series.

Fans who want to support the Memphis Grizzlies by purchasing 2016-17 Season Tickets, 12- and 22-Game Packs can do so now by calling (901) 888-HOOP or going online to grizzlies.com. For more information on the Grizzlies, ‘like’ Memphis Grizzlies on Facebook or follow on Twitter (@memgrizz).