Grizzlies Outlast Suns in High-Scoring Overtime Thriller

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Memphis Grizzlies edged the Phoenix Suns 151-148 in a thrilling overtime matchup on Tuesday night, featuring an astounding 299 combined points—the most in an NBA game this season. Star guard Ja Morant led Memphis with 29 points and eight assists, including a crucial assist for a dunk with only 9.1 seconds remaining in overtime.

The game was marked by its closeness, boasting 22 ties and 22 lead changes. Phoenix secured its largest lead of the night, up by 10 points, during the third quarter. However, the Grizzlies, with Morant and his team rallying late, managed to take control in the final seconds.

Morant’s performance was particularly notable, as he struggled initially, shooting only 2-of-14 through three quarters. However, he found his rhythm in the fourth quarter, scoring 15 points, including Memphis’ final 11 points to help force overtime. “I know every shot I take won’t go in, but that doesn’t mean, you know, once you miss one you stop taking them,” Morant said postgame. “Just continuing to shoot the ball. Shot it with confidence.”

The game also highlighted the spectacular offensive depth of both teams. Five Suns players scored at least 20 points for the first time since November 10, 1990, with Kevin Durant leading the way with 28 points and 10 assists before fouling out. Deserting Durant were strong performances from teammates, including Devin Booker with 26 points and Bradley Beal with 24 points and a season-high 11 assists.

The Grizzlies’ win allowed them to tie for second place in the Western Conference standings with the idle Denver Nuggets. Meanwhile, the Suns faced further struggles, having lost six of their last seven games, dropping to a season-worst four games under .500, now more than two games behind the play-in spot.

Durant’s late jumper in overtime briefly put the Suns ahead 148-144, but Memphis answered back with a 3-pointer before Brandon Clark’s tip-in secured the lead with 37.6 seconds left. Durant missed two crucial 3-point attempts in the final seconds, sealing a disappointing outcome for Phoenix.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.