The Oklahoma City Thunder completed a stunning comeback to defeat the Memphis Grizzlies 114-108 in Game 3 of their first-round NBA playoff series on April 25, 2025, at the FedExForum in Memphis. This victory not only gave the Thunder a commanding 3-0 lead in the series but also showcased their resilience and determination to compete for the championship.
With an attendance of 16,849, the atmosphere was electric, as Thunder fans filled the arena, hoping to witness a historic playoff moment. The game was officiated by referees Marat Kogut, Josh Tiven, Kevin Cutler, and Mitchell Ervin, who had their hands full with the intensity of the matchup.
Oklahoma City started strong, with standout performances from their key players. The Thunder's starting lineup included Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who scored 24 points, followed by Jalen Williams with 26, Chet Holmgren contributing 31 points, and Isaiah Hartenstein adding 2 points. Their bench players chipped in as well, with significant contributions from Alex Caruso and others, who combined for 26 points.
The Thunder's shooting was impressive, finishing the game with a field goal percentage of 45.3%, including 34.2% from beyond the arc and 69.7% from the free-throw line. Their offensive execution was a testament to their preparation and strategy, which has been a hallmark of their postseason play.
On the other side, the Grizzlies fought hard, led by Ja Morant, who scored 22 points despite struggling with his shooting efficiency. Jaren Jackson Jr. also had a notable performance with 28 points, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Thunder's offensive onslaught. The Grizzlies finished the game with a field goal percentage of 43.4%, including 33.3% from three-point range and 84.6% from the charity stripe.
As the game progressed, the Thunder found themselves down by as much as 15 points, but their determination shone through. Holmgren's explosive dunk over Zach Edey ignited a run that brought the Thunder back into the game. Jalen Williams capped off a thrilling third quarter with a crucial three-pointer that cut the Grizzlies' lead to just 8 points, shifting the momentum in favor of Oklahoma City.
Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault praised his team's effort, stating, "We can’t wait to play in this environment. It’s the best time of the year for this reason. It’ll be a live crowd, an energized team, and a great challenge." His confidence in the team's ability to handle pressure has been evident throughout the season.
Chet Holmgren echoed his coach's sentiments, saying, "Every team, every city has a different crowd and we have the best in the league. We’ll see what Memphis is like tonight. I expect their crowd to be rowdy." The Thunder's experience in high-stakes situations has prepared them well for the challenges of the playoffs.
Despite the Grizzlies' home-court advantage, the Thunder's depth and skill proved too much to handle. The Thunder's bench, which included Caruso and Hartenstein, played a pivotal role in the victory, combining for 26 points and providing crucial minutes when needed.
As the series progresses, the Thunder have shown that they are a force to be reckoned with. After their historic 51-point win in Game 1 and a 19-point victory in Game 2, this latest win solidifies their dominance in the series. With a 3-0 lead, they are on the verge of sweeping the Grizzlies and advancing to the next round.
Looking ahead, the Thunder will aim to maintain their momentum as they prepare for Game 4. The Grizzlies, on the other hand, will need to regroup and find a way to counter the Thunder's potent offense if they hope to stay alive in the series.
As the playoffs continue, the Thunder's chemistry and unity have become a focal point. Reports from News 9 Thunder Reporter Steve McGehee highlighted the team's camaraderie, stating, "This team really enjoys being together. There’s no one guy that’s maybe in question; everybody loves everybody." This bond among players has translated into their performance on the court, making them a formidable opponent.
With the playoffs in full swing, the Thunder's sights are set on the ultimate prize. Their combination of talent, coaching, and team spirit positions them well for a deep playoff run. As they head into the next game, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if they can complete the sweep and solidify their status as championship contenders.
The Thunder's journey continues, and with each game, they are proving that they are ready to compete at the highest level. The excitement surrounding this team is palpable, and as they move forward in the playoffs, they will look to build on their recent success and make a serious run for the NBA title.
