Jaren Jackson Jr. sank two clutch free throws with 8.6 seconds left, securing a 120-119 victory for the Memphis Grizzlies over the Houston Rockets on Thursday.
Houston had a chance to win at the buzzer, but Fred VanVleet’s three-point attempt missed the mark.
Grizzlies Rally Late to Secure Win
- Desmond Bane led Memphis with 24 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists.
- Luke Kennard contributed 22 points, while Jackson added 21 to go along with his game-winning free throws.
- Memphis closed the game on a 13-4 run, securing their seventh win in eight games.
The Rockets, whose four-game win streak came to an end, were led by:
- Jalen Green (25 points, six rebounds, five assists)
- Dillon Brooks (22 points)
- Amen Thompson (21 points, seven rebounds, four assists, four blocks)
Houston was aiming for its first series sweep of Memphis since the 2009-10 season, having won their previous three matchups.
Back-and-Forth Battle Between Top Western Teams
The game featured 14 ties and 13 lead changes, with both teams missing key starters:
- Ja Morant (Grizzlies) – out with right shoulder soreness
- Alperen Sengun (Rockets) – sidelined for the first time this season due to a left calf contusion
Game Recap
Memphis trailed by 10 points at halftime (66-56) and struggled early in the second half. However, they opened the third quarter with an 8-0 run, fueled by back-to-back threes from Kennard.
The Grizzlies briefly took the lead at 79-78 after a bucket from Santi Aldama, but the Rockets regained control and entered the fourth quarter ahead 96-92.
Despite Houston’s hot start (38 first-quarter points, eight first-half threes), Memphis rallied late to steal the win.
Looking Ahead
With this victory, the Grizzlies continue their strong stretch, while the Rockets will look to bounce back after having their win streak snapped.