DALLAS — The Memphis Grizzlies orchestrated an impressive rally in the fourth quarter to secure a 122-111 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Friday night. Ja Morant showcased his scoring prowess, contributing 31 points, including the final seven points of the game. His teammate, Desmond Bane, also had an outstanding performance, recording 27 points and achieving a career-high with 16 rebounds.
On the Mavericks’ side, reserve player Brandon Williams notched a personal best with 31 points, while Naji Marshall established career highs with 29 points and 17 rebounds. Unfortunately for Dallas, this defeat marked their fourth consecutive loss and the sixth in their last seven games.
The Grizzlies wrapped up the game on an impactful 18-4 run, successfully ending their own four-game losing skid. Notably absent from the lineup was their leading scorer, Jaren Jackson Jr., who is sidelined week-to-week due to a left ankle injury he sustained on Monday.
As the game neared its end, Dallas was trailing close behind, narrowing the gap to 115-111 with Williams’ free throw at 2:06 remaining. However, Morant sealed the victory for Memphis with a sequence of decisive plays: a layup at 1:35, followed by a jumper with a minute remaining, and finally a 3-pointer with 30 seconds left on the clock.
The Mavericks, trying to adapt after losing Kyrie Irving to a season-ending knee injury, struggled offensively towards the end, managing just one field goal in the last seven minutes.
Key Insights: The Grizzlies currently sit fourth in the Western Conference, one game ahead of Houston. Morant was particularly dynamic after a slow start, scoring 24 of his points in the second half. Conversely, the Mavericks are positioned 10th in the West, reaching a .500 record for the first time since mid-November.
Rising debuts saw Caleb Martin contributing moderately in his Mavericks debut, while Olivier-Maxence Prosper will miss the rest of the season due to a wrist injury.
A Pivotal Moment: During a crucial stretch when Memphis led 115-111, Morant capitalized on rebounding from Klay Thompson’s missed 3-pointer to launch his finishing scoring blitz.
Statistical Highlight: Memphis effectively dominated the paint, outscoring the Mavericks 74-38 in that region, aided by Zach Edey’s tenacious offensive rebounding.
Next Games: The Mavericks are set to host the Phoenix Suns on Sunday, while the Grizzlies will face the New Orleans Pelicans that same evening.