An Explosive Performance: Houston Rockets Overwhelm Memphis Grizzlies

Green Leads Charge as Rockets Overcome Grizzlies

Jalen Green delivered a stellar performance, scoring 22 points, in the Houston Rockets’ decisive 128-108 victory against the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday evening. Six other Rockets supported Green’s commanding lead with double-digit scores. Dillon Brooks contributed 18, Alperen Sengun and Fred VanVleet each dropped 16, Jabari Smith Jr. impressed with a 14-point, 16-rebound double-double, while Tari Eason and Cam Whitmore added 13 and 11 points respectively.

Memphis’ top performer, Ja Morant, managed 24 points on 8-of-17 shooting. Desmond Bane chipped in with 17 points, while Scottie Pippen Jr. and Zach Edey rounded out the top scorers for the Grizzlies with 13 points each.

The Turnaround: Rockets’ Third Quarter Offensive Outburst

Despite trailing 65-59 at the halfway point, the Rockets managed to shift gears in the third quarter, outscoring the Grizzlies 39-18 to seize control of the game.

Grizzlies Struggle on the Boards

Memphis struggled on the glass, getting outrebounded 64-43. Edey, the Grizzlies’ towering 7-foot-4 rookie, led the team with nine rebounds. The Grizzlies felt the absence of 6-11 center Jaren Jackson Jr., who was sidelined due to a left hamstring strain.

Rockets’ Promising Start

Houston, eager to avoid a third consecutive 0-2 start to the season, showcased the growth and tenacity of its young core. The Rockets also demonstrated notable improvement from beyond the arc, hitting 17 of 43 three-point attempts for a 39.5% success rate, including 2 of 4 from rookie Reed Sheppard.

Game-Changing Moment: Rockets’ Third Quarter Surge

The Rockets ignited a 17-0 run in the middle of the third quarter, flipping a nine-point deficit into an eight-point advantage they never surrendered. The Grizzlies endured a scoring drought lasting 4:29 during this period.

Key Game Stat: Points from Turnovers

Houston capitalized on Memphis’ mistakes, scoring 29 points off the Grizzlies’ 19 turnovers. In contrast, the Grizzlies only managed to score 13 points from the Rockets’ 19 turnovers.

What’s Next for the Teams?

The Grizzlies will host the Orlando Magic on Saturday night. Meanwhile, the Rockets will hit the road to face the San Antonio Spurs on the same night.