In a breathtaking display of basketball, the Memphis Grizzlies triumphed over the Phoenix Suns in a thrilling 151-148 overtime contest on Tuesday night. Both teams put forth an offensive exhibition, combining for a remarkable 299 points—the highest of the NBA season thus far, as reported by ESPN Research. Ja Morant led the Grizzlies with 29 points and eight assists, contributing significantly to a gripping showdown filled with drama and intensity. As the final seconds ticked down in overtime, Morant’s pivotal assist to Jaylen Wells for a slam dunk capped a 7-0 run that sealed the game for Memphis.
From the tip-off to the final buzzer, the matchup was characterized by razor-thin margins, featuring an astonishing 22 ties and an equal number of lead changes throughout the contest. The Suns managed to carve out a 10-point advantage during the third quarter, showcasing their offensive prowess. However, the Grizzlies refused to back down, demonstrating resilience and grit in their quest for victory. Jaren Jackson Jr. contributed a solid 28 points to Memphis’ cause before foul trouble hindered him late in the game. Alongside him, Desmond Bane’s performance was notable, as he added 25 points and nine assists, helping Memphis secure a tie for second place in the competitive Western Conference standings.
The Suns showed off their offensive depth, with five players scoring over 20 points—a feat unachieved since November 10, 1990. Devin Booker led the charge with 28 points and 10 assists, but his night ended prematurely after fouling out. Kevin Durant held his own with 26 points, while Bradley Beal displayed versatility, notching 24 points alongside 11 assists. Bol Bol also impressed, reaching a season-high of 23 points, and Grayson Allen contributed with a solid 21 points. Yet despite this impressive collective effort, the Suns fell short as they grappling with their current struggles, now having lost six of their last seven games.
Ja Morant proved to be the heart of the Grizzlies, particularly in the crunch time of the fourth quarter. After struggling initially, shooting just 2-of-14 from the floor in the first three quarters, he rebounded spectacularly to score 15 points in the final period, including Memphis’ last 11 to force overtime. After the game, Morant spoke candidly about maintaining confidence despite a rocky shooting night, 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.” His determination resonated throughout the arena and undoubtedly inspired his teammates during critical moments of the contest.
As the season progresses, the Suns find themselves precariously positioned, currently over four games below .500. They trail the Sacramento Kings, who hold the last play-in spot in the Western Conference. The pressure mounts as the team grapples with its current form, necessitating a reevaluation of strategies to steer their season back on course. With a talented roster, the potential is there, but cohesion and execution in crucial moments will be vital moving forward. The thrilling clash against the Grizzlies indeed provided answers but also raised questions about the Suns’ ability to perform under pressure in the weeks ahead.