Jaren Jackson Jr. and Desmond Bane carried the Memphis Grizzlies to a 117-112 victory over the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday night. The win improved Memphis’ record to 23-11, keeping them in second place in the Western Conference.
Jackson Jr. scored a game-high 38 points while grabbing 10 rebounds and sinking four three-pointers. Bane added 31 points, seven assists, and five rebounds, ensuring Memphis never trailed despite missing starters Ja Morant and Zach Edey due to injuries.
Memphis also received significant contributions from Luke Kennard, who scored 17 points off the bench, and John Konchar, who secured 12 rebounds and made a critical three-point play late in the game.
Phoenix welcomed back Devin Booker, who scored 16 points and dished out nine assists after missing five games with a left groin strain. However, Kevin Durant shouldered much of the scoring load, leading the Suns with 29 points and 10 rebounds.
The Suns struggled without center Jusuf Nurkic, who served the second game of his three-game suspension for a prior altercation. Bradley Beal, who has been battling injuries all season, left the game in the first half with a left hip contusion, leaving Phoenix further shorthanded.
Fouls plagued both teams throughout the game, with 54 fouls called and 58 free throws attempted. Jackson Jr. went 10-of-17 from the line, while the Grizzlies collectively shot 66.7% from the stripe. Despite the free throw struggles, Memphis capitalized on Phoenix’s defensive lapses to maintain control.
Phoenix, now 15-17 on the season, has dropped six of its last seven games.
