In their Franchise Issue hitting the stands Friday, ESPN The Magazine named the Memphis Grizzlies “the best franchise in sports.” The magazine broke the news Tuesday on Twitter, “The @MemGrizz are the best, Sacramento Kings are the worst & Cam Newton is on a mission. #FranchiseIssue out Friday.” ESPN determines the best franchise in sports by ownership, venue experience, affordability, fan relations, and wins and revenue directly from the fans. The Grizzlies were ranked No. 9 in 2011 and No. 5 in 2012. Memphis became ESPN’s best franchise in sports after appearing in the Western Conference Finals last season. This is definitely a coup for the small market Grizzlies!

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