GRIZZLIES WORLD HEADQUARTERS –- Former Grizzlies television analyst Michael Cage happily endorses and supports Sean Tuohy as his successor on the tube.

Cage won’t return to work a third season while the Griz will announce soon that Tuohy shifts from radio to television. Tuohy will partner with TV play-by-play guy Pete Pranica.

The shakeup on this side of the Grizzlies’ business operations was unexpected, according to Cage. The West Memphis product and longtime NBA center leaves with a bittersweet taste in his mouth.

“We couldn’t work out a compromise,” Cage said.

“I was disappointed that they weren’t willing to compromise so that I could continue to develop my relationship with Memphis,” Cage continued. “I guess don’t understand this side of the business as much as I do basketball.”

Don’t be mistaken. Cage didn’t sound irate. He seemed a bit confused. Apparently, the Griz wanted him to work about 65 games. Cage wanted the ballpark to be in the 50-game range because his family resides in the Los Angeles area.

“I’m disappointed that this didn’t happen,” Cage said. “But I really appreciate working for the Grizzlies. I thank the organization for the experience and the opportunity they gave me. I’ll still be a Grizzlies fan and I’ll always be pro Memphis.”

Cage joined the Griz once former NBA great Hersey Hawkins vacated the position. Cage helped provide stability on the broadcast following the untimely death of then play-by-play announcer Don Poier.

Then, Pranica moved up from radio and that opened up a chance for Eric Hasseltine to take over radio play-by-play duties.

So what’s going on with radio now?

The Griz are toying with the idea of using a collection of “celebrity” guest radio analysts to work with Hasseltine.

Meanwhile, here’s a toast to Tuohy. Thanks for the memories, Michael.

COMING SOON: Another Griz biz promotion in the works?