The Memphis Grizzlies secured a commanding 128-112 victory over the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday night, improving to 20-9 on the season. Memphis overcame the absence of Ja Morant, sidelined due to low back soreness, with Desmond Bane and Scotty Pippen Jr. stepping up in pivotal roles.
Bane led the way with 23 points, shooting 7-for-12 from the field and an efficient 4-for-8 from beyond the arc. Pippen Jr. added 22 points and a game-high nine assists, proving instrumental in orchestrating the Grizzlies’ offense. Seven Memphis players scored in double figures, highlighting their balanced attack.
Atlanta, missing Trae Young due to a right heel contusion, struggled to keep pace despite 26 points from De’Andre Hunter off the bench. Jalen Johnson contributed a double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds, but the Hawks fell to 14-15 on the season.
Memphis showcased its offensive firepower, shooting 51.5% from the field and 43.9% from three-point range. Jake LaRavia, coming off the bench, scored 16 points, including a crucial pull-up three-pointer late in the third quarter that extended the Grizzlies’ lead to 100-74.
The Grizzlies also demonstrated their defensive discipline, forcing 25 Atlanta turnovers while limiting themselves to just 18. Their transition game was key, with multiple fast-break opportunities helping to build their insurmountable lead.
Hunter’s 26-point performance for Atlanta was one of the few bright spots for the visitors. The Hawks shot a respectable 48.8% from the field but struggled to match Memphis’ depth and efficiency, particularly from long range.
