Despite missing several key players, Jalen Williams and the defending champions Oklahoma City Thunder dug deep to stun the Grizzlies and extended their streak to 12 straight regular-season wins over Memphis.
The OKC Thunder are the defending NBA champions for a reason.
Without MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren, the Thunder staged a dramatic comeback to edge the Memphis Grizzlies, 117-116, on Saturday, January 10 (PH time).
Jalen Williams led the charge with a 26-point, 10-assist double-double, helping the Thunder — also missing Isaiah Hartenstein, Cason Wallace, and Jaylin Williams — secure their 12th straight regular-season win over Memphis in gritty fashion.
After falling behind by as many as 21 points, Kenrich Williams gave OKC the lead at 115-114 with a booming three-pointer with 1:07 left in regualtion.
Following two free throws by Lu Dort, Jock Landale’s sweeping hook brought Memphis within one at 116-117 with under 40 seconds remaining.
In the final moments, Memphis had a chance to steal the game, but Cedric Coward’s last-gasp attempt was emphatically blocked by Alex Caruso, sealing a gutsy Thunder victory.
Ajay Mitchell contributed 23 points as OKC improved to 32-7 and prepares to host the Miami Heat (20-17) next.
For the Grizzlies, Jaren Jackson Jr. poured in a team-high 23 points in a losing effort.
The game also came amid reports that Memphis has opened talks regarding a potential trade for superstar Ja Morant, who missed the matchup with a right calf contusion.
Memphis will visit the Brooklyn Nets (11-24) in their next outing.
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Pao Ambat earned his journalism degree from Cavite State University in 2022.
Passionate about sports from a young age, he primarily covers the NBA for One Sports, while also assisting in reporting on the PVL, PBA, UAAP, and other leagues.