Home NBA Grizzlies edge Timberwolves in thrilling fourth-quarter comeback

Grizzlies edge Timberwolves in thrilling fourth-quarter comeback

Jaren Jackson Jr. powered the Memphis Grizzlies to a narrow 108-106 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves with a dominant fourth-quarter performance. Jackson recorded 24 points, 15 of which came in the final period, along with 10 rebounds and two blocks as Memphis (28-15) extended its winning streak to three games.

Desmond Bane added 22 points, shooting 4 of 6 from beyond the arc, while Ja Morant contributed 19 points despite struggling from the field at 5 of 16. The Grizzlies overcame a late deficit with an 11-0 run in the final minutes, erasing Minnesota’s (22-21) control of the game.

Anthony Edwards led the Timberwolves with 32 points, including several clutch plays in the fourth quarter. However, his potential game-winning three-pointer with five seconds left fell short against the smothering defense of Bane and Jackson. Naz Reid was pivotal off the bench for Minnesota, tallying 29 points and 8 rebounds, with 15 points coming in the fourth.

Memphis outscored Minnesota 37-30 in the decisive final quarter, capitalizing on turnovers and missed opportunities from the Timberwolves. Jackson hit six of his eight shots in the period, including critical free throws down the stretch. Bane’s sharp shooting and composure proved vital as the Grizzlies chipped away at the Timberwolves’ lead.

Minnesota started strong, with Edwards setting the tone early and Jaden McDaniels contributing 12 rebounds to anchor the defense. Reid provided a spark with five three-pointers, and Rob Dillingham’s 15 points off the bench kept the Timberwolves competitive. However, Rudy Gobert struggled offensively, finishing 1 of 5 from the field, and Memphis capitalized on defensive lapses in the closing minutes.

The Timberwolves were without Donte DiVincenzo, who missed the game due to a big toe injury. Memphis, playing without key contributors Marcus Smart and Cam Spencer, relied on its bench to provide timely contributions, with Brandon Clarke and Luke Kennard combining for 14 points.

The game’s intensity heightened in the final minutes as Minnesota clung to a slim lead before Memphis surged ahead. After a missed opportunity to inbound the ball cleanly, the Timberwolves turned to Edwards for a final shot. His contested 27-footer over Jackson and Bane failed to connect, sealing the Grizzlies’ victory.

Game Recap: Grizzlies 108, Timberwolves 106
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