The Memphis Grizzlies (3-3) handed the Milwaukee Bucks (1-4) their fourth straight loss with a decisive 122-99 victory on Thursday night. Memphis capitalized on a dominant second-half performance, with Ja Morant’s triple-double setting the tone for a night where the Grizzlies led by as many as 31 points.
Morant recorded 26 points, 14 assists, and 10 rebounds, marking his 12th career triple-double, while Memphis shot 52% from the field overall. Seven Grizzlies players reached double figures, with Santi Aldama contributing 19 points and nine rebounds, and Jaylen Wells and Scotty Pippen Jr. each adding 16 points.
The Bucks were led by Giannis Antetokounmpo, who had a stellar 37 points on 17-for-22 shooting, adding 11 rebounds. However, Milwaukee’s offense was held back by a shooting slump from Damian Lillard, who went 1-for-12 from the field, missing all six of his 3-point attempts.
Milwaukee’s shooting struggles extended beyond Lillard, as the team made just 9 of 42 attempts from 3-point range, contrasting with Memphis’ effective scoring. Memphis’ defensive focus helped them hold Milwaukee to 42% shooting in the first half, building a comfortable lead heading into the final quarters.
The Grizzlies’ victory follows a tough loss to the Brooklyn Nets. On Thursday, however, Memphis came out with a renewed intensity, which was evident as they maintained over 50% shooting accuracy while limiting Milwaukee’s shot efficiency.
Antetokounmpo’s efforts alone were not enough to turn the tide for Milwaukee. Brook Lopez added 12 points, and Bobby Portis contributed 11, but the Bucks’ bench struggled to provide adequate support. Despite Antetokounmpo’s impressive stat line, Milwaukee has now lost four consecutive games.
For Milwaukee, finding stability in their shooting will be a priority, particularly as Lillard works to break out of a recent shooting slump. Over the last three games, Lillard has converted only 6 of 27 from beyond the arc, contributing to Milwaukee’s challenges in maintaining offensive momentum.
