MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — The Memphis Grizzlies secured their spot in the NBA playoffs with a commanding 120-106 victory over the Dallas Mavericks in the play-in decider on Friday night, April 18, 2025. This win not only clinched the eighth seed in the Western Conference for Memphis but also set them up for a first-round matchup against the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder, starting this Sunday.
Jaren Jackson Jr. was the standout performer for the Grizzlies, leading the team with 24 points, shooting an impressive 10-of-18 from the field, including 4-of-5 from beyond the arc. His contributions were pivotal in establishing a significant lead early in the game. Desmond Bane and Ja Morant also made substantial impacts, each adding 22 points to the scoreboard, while Morant dished out nine assists and grabbed seven rebounds despite playing through a sprained right ankle.
"We're still alive, that's all that matters," Jackson said postgame, reflecting on the team's resilience and determination. "We got it done at home, something to feel good about ... now we're onto the playoffs." The Grizzlies’ victory is a remarkable turnaround from last season when they finished 13th in the Western Conference.
Memphis started the game strong, jumping to a 7-0 lead and extending it to a 34-14 advantage just nine minutes into the first quarter. They maintained control throughout, leading by as many as 25 points at one stage. The Mavericks, who were coming off a victory against the Sacramento Kings to earn their play-in spot, struggled to find their rhythm and never held a lead in the game.
Anthony Davis was the lone bright spot for Dallas, erupting for 40 points and collecting nine rebounds. However, his efforts were not enough to overcome the Grizzlies' balanced scoring and defensive prowess. Davis did limp off the court during the fourth quarter with what appeared to be a calf injury, but he returned briefly before the game's conclusion.
"I couldn't feel it ... so I was out there," Morant said regarding his ankle injury, showcasing his determination to contribute to the team despite the pain. Interim head coach Tuomas Iisalo praised Morant's tenacity, stating, "I've learned not to doubt (Morant) too much. He comes up with some stuff that I'm not sure there's any other human being on the planet that can do."
Despite Davis's stellar performance, the Mavericks faced challenges in other areas. They shot just 31.6% from three-point range, making only 12 of their 38 attempts. Dallas also struggled with turnovers, giving the ball away 16 times, which the Grizzlies capitalized on for easy baskets.
Alongside Jackson, Bane, and Morant, Zach Edey made a significant contribution in the paint, scoring 15 points on 7-of-9 shooting and grabbing 11 rebounds, including six offensive boards. Scotty Pippen Jr. added 13 points, while Santi Aldama chipped in with 11 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists in 29 minutes on the court.
The Mavericks tried to mount a comeback, cutting the Grizzlies' lead to single digits midway through the third quarter with a 27-12 run. However, Memphis responded effectively, stretching their lead back to 96-80 heading into the final quarter, ultimately sealing their playoff fate.
With the playoffs set to begin, the Grizzlies will face a tough challenge against the Oklahoma City Thunder, who finished the regular season with an impressive 68-14 record. The first game of the series will take place on April 20, 2025, at 1 p.m. ET in Oklahoma City, followed by Game 2 on April 22 at 7:30 p.m. ET.
The playoff schedule for the Grizzlies against the Thunder is as follows:
- Game 1: April 20 - Thunder vs. Grizzlies at 1 p.m. ET
- Game 2: April 22 - Thunder vs. Grizzlies at 7:30 p.m. ET
- Game 3: April 24 - Grizzlies vs. Thunder at 9:30 p.m. ET
- Game 4: April 25 - Grizzlies vs. Thunder at 3:30 p.m. ET
- Game 5: April 28 - Thunder vs. Grizzlies at TBD (if necessary)
- Game 6: May 1 - Grizzlies vs. Thunder at TBD (if necessary)
- Game 7*: May 3 - Thunder vs. Grizzlies at TBD (if necessary)
The Grizzlies' journey back to the playoffs is a testament to their hard work and determination, and they will be looking to make a significant impact in the postseason. As the team prepares for their first-round matchup against the Thunder, fans are eager to see if Memphis can continue their momentum and make a deep playoff run.
