MIAMI - Former Boston Celtics general manager Chris Wallace has taken charge of NBA rivals Memphis Grizzlies, the team said on Monday.

In a statement on the team's official Web site (www.nba.com/grizzlies) the Grizzlies said that Wallace, who spent the past 10 seasons in Boston, would take on the role of vice-president and general manager from outgoing post-holder Jerry West.

Last month Memphis appointed a new coach in former Phoenix Suns assistant Marc Iavaroni and after a poor campaign they have been busy bringing in new talent.

"The Grizzlies are a team poised to make significant strides in the near future. Jerry West and his staff have put together a roster full of talented offensive players and young, exciting athletes with tremendous upside," said Wallace.