Thunder Complete Playoff Sweep Over Grizzlies with Nail-Biting 117-115 Win

MEMPHIS, TN — The Oklahoma City Thunder secured a dramatic 117-115 victory against the Memphis Grizzlies on April 26, 2025, completing a 4-0 series sweep in the first round of the NBA playoffs. The Thunder became the first team to advance to the second round this postseason.

With less than a minute left in the game and the Thunder leading by just two points, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored crucial baskets that maintained their edge over the Grizzlies. Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault praised his team’s execution during high-pressure moments, emphasizing the importance of solid defensive play late in the game.

Despite Ja Morant’s absence due to injury, which dampened the energy in the FedExForum, the Grizzlies fought valiantly to stay in contention. The first quarter saw the Thunder take a narrow 34-31 lead, with Gilgeous-Alexander scoring 16 points in the opening frame, helping to settle the team after earlier struggles in the series.

As the game progressed, the lead switched back and forth, but the Thunder managed to create a brief cushion, going up by as much as 12 points late in the fourth quarter. The Grizzlies responded with an 8-0 run, fueled by strong play from Santi Aldama and Desmond Bane, closing the gap to two points with mere seconds on the clock.

Thunder power forward Jalen Williams delivered critical points down the stretch, finishing with 23 points and helping to secure the sweep along with Gilgeous-Alexander, who led with an impressive 38 points. The Thunder shot 44% from the field and capitalized on their free throw opportunities, hitting 28 of their 35 attempts.

Jaren Jackson Jr. struggled to find his rhythm, managing just 12 points for the Grizzlies, while Scotty Pippen Jr. excelled with 30 points and 11 rebounds. Even with their prominent players hampered, the Grizzlies kept the game competitive until the final buzzer.

As the series concluded, Daigneault extended respect to the Grizzlies for their fight despite the challenges they faced. The Thunder now have a week to prepare for the next round, waiting to see who they will face after the Denver Nuggets and LA Clippers conclude their first-round match.