Grizzlies Edge Suns in Thrilling Overtime Showdown
In a game that will be remembered for its sheer intensity and nail-biting finish, the Memphis Grizzlies managed to outlast the Phoenix Suns in a high-scoring overtime thriller, winning 151-148. This game, played on a Tuesday night in Memphis, Tennessee, was not just any regular-season matchup; it was the highest-scoring game of the NBA season, with a combined total of 299 points, according to ESPN Research.
The game was a rollercoaster from start to finish, featuring 22 ties and 22 lead changes. The Suns had the largest lead of the night, a 10-point advantage in the third quarter, but the Grizzlies clawed their way back into contention. The hero of the night was undoubtedly Ja Morant, who delivered a stellar performance with 29 points and eight assists. His final assist was a crucial feed to Jaylen Wells for a dunk with just 9.1 seconds left in overtime, sealing the victory for Memphis.
Morant’s performance was a testament to his resilience. Despite shooting a dismal 2-of-14 from the field through the first three quarters, he came alive in the fourth, scoring 15 points, including Memphis’ final 11 points. His only successful three-pointer of the night was a critical one, cutting the Suns’ lead to a single point with 9.2 seconds remaining in regulation. He then tied the game at 137-137 with a floater with just 1.4 seconds left, forcing the game into overtime.
In overtime, the Suns briefly took the lead with a jumper from Kevin Durant, putting them ahead 148-144. However, the Grizzlies responded with a 3-pointer from Santi Aldama, and a tip-in from Brandon Clark gave Memphis the lead with 37.6 seconds left. Durant had a chance to reclaim the lead for Phoenix but missed two three-point attempts in the final seconds.
For the Grizzlies, Jaren Jackson Jr. contributed 28 points before fouling out in the fourth quarter, while Desmond Bane added 25 points and nine assists. This victory propelled Memphis into a tie for second place in the Western Conference alongside the idle Denver Nuggets.
On the other side, the Suns had an impressive offensive showing, with five players scoring at least 20 points for the first time since November 10, 1990. Devin Booker led the charge with 28 points and 10 assists before fouling out. Durant added 26 points, Bradley Beal had 24 points and a season-high 11 assists, Bol Bol scored a season-high 23 points, and Grayson Allen contributed 21 points.
Despite their offensive prowess, the Suns have been struggling, losing six of their last seven games. This latest defeat drops them to a season-worst four games under .500, leaving them more than two games behind the Sacramento Kings for the final play-in spot in the Western Conference.
After the game, Morant reflected on his shooting performance, saying, “I know every shot I take won’t go in but that don’t mean, you know, once you miss one you stop taking them. Just continuing to shoot the ball. Shot it with confidence.”
As the season progresses, both teams will be looking to build on this game, albeit for different reasons. The Grizzlies will aim to maintain their momentum and secure a strong playoff position, while the Suns will be desperate to turn their fortunes around and make a push for the postseason.
Originally Written by: ESPN.com
