Game Summary
The contest began as a back-and-forth affair, with 10 lead changes in the opening quarter alone as Memphis built a narrow 31-28 lead. The Bucks showed signs of life in the third quarter, opening up a 10-point advantage after Giannis Antetokounmpo’s emphatic put-back dunk. However, the Grizzlies responded with a decisive 12-4 run to start the fourth quarter, taking control of the game and never looking back.
Key Performances
Jaren Jackson Jr. dominated the proceedings with 37 points, including seven three-pointers, while shooting an efficient 46.2% from the field. His clutch performance in the fourth quarter, where he scored 16 points and knocked down three crucial three-pointers, proved decisive.Santi Aldama provided excellent support off the bench with 23 points and eight rebounds, while Desmond Bane contributed 22 points on 60% shooting. The Grizzlies’ balanced attack saw seven players score in double figures.For the Bucks, Giannis Antetokounmpo led the charge with 30 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists on an efficient 14-of-21 shooting. Khris Middleton added 20 points off the bench, but Damian Lillard struggled, scoring just 15 points on 4-of-15 shooting.
Statistical Breakdown
The Grizzlies dominated several key statistical categories:
- Field Goal Percentage: 48.6% (52-107)
- Three-Point Shooting: 35.9% (14-39)
- Rebounds: 72-46 advantage
- Assists: 37-32 edge
- Steals: 9-7 margin
Turning Point
With the game tied at 112, Memphis engineered a decisive 7-0 run that broke the Bucks’ spirit. The Grizzlies’ superior bench play, outscoring Milwaukee’s reserves significantly, proved crucial in the final period.
Individual Highlights
Memphis Grizzlies:
- Zach Edey: 14 points, 11 rebounds
- Luke Kennard: 8 points, 8 assists
- Scotty Pippen Jr.: 9 points, 10 assists, 4 steals
Milwaukee Bucks:
- Brook Lopez: 15 points, 3 three-pointers
- Taurean Prince: 13 points, 7 rebounds
- AJ Green: 14 points off the bench1
Impact on Standings
The victory improves Memphis’s record to 32-16, maintaining their position as one of the Western Conference’s top teams. Meanwhile, the Bucks fall to 26-19, continuing their recent struggles with their fourth loss in five games.
Looking Ahead
This defeat raises questions about Milwaukee’s championship aspirations, particularly their defensive struggles and integration of Damian Lillard into their system. The Grizzlies, conversely, continue to prove they can win without Ja Morant, showcasing their depth and resilient team culture.
Final Thoughts
This game epitomized the contrasting trajectories of both teams – Memphis rising despite adversity, while Milwaukee searches for consistency under new coach Doc Rivers. The Grizzlies’ seventh straight victory over the Bucks suggests a psychological edge that transcends individual matchups.The combination of Jackson Jr.’s scoring outburst, Aldama’s efficient bench production, and the team’s overall defensive effort demonstrates why Memphis remains a formidable force in the Western Conference, even without their superstar guard.