Memphis built a 13-point cushion in the third, then held off Utah’s fourth-quarter push to win 110-105.
Memphis beat Utah 110-105, using a 31-24 third quarter to create separation and withstand a late push. The Grizzlies led 30-21 after the first and 58-52 at halftime, then stretched the margin to 89-76 entering the fourth. Utah won the final quarter 29-21, but the comeback fell short. Keyonte George led Utah with 26 points on 9-for-17 shooting, adding 3 rebounds and 6 assists with 0 steals, 0 blocks and 2 turnovers. Airious Bailey supplied 17 points on 6-for-10 shooting, 10 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 blocks, with 0 steals and 1 turnover. Memphis’ Cedric Coward posted 16 points on 6-for-12 shooting, 11 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal, 0 blocks and 2 turnovers. Ty Jerome added 15 points on 4-for-15 shooting, 8 assists, 1 rebound, 1 steal, 0 blocks and 1 turnover as Memphis closed out the win.
Key Performers
Keyonte George, Utah: 26 PTS, 3 REB, 6 AST; 9-for-17 FG Airious Bailey, Utah: 17 PTS, 10 REB, 3 AST, 3 BLK; 6-for-10 FG Cedric Coward, Memphis: 16 PTS, 11 REB, 3 AST, 1 STL; 6-for-12 FG
Standings Impact
Memphis improved to 3-0, while Utah fell to 1-2. Memphis is sixth in the power index; Utah is 22nd.
DYMA Insight
Memphis’ third-quarter edge proved decisive: its 31 points in the period turned a six-point halftime lead into a 13-point cushion. Utah’s fourth-quarter rally trimmed the gap, but not enough to change the result.