MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — In a thrilling Game 3 showdown, the Oklahoma City Thunder pulled off a stunning comeback, overcoming a staggering 29-point deficit to defeat the Memphis Grizzlies 114-108 on Thursday night. The victory gives the Thunder a commanding 3-0 lead in their first-round playoff series.
The game took a dramatic turn when Memphis star guard Ja Morant exited with a left hip injury just before halftime. With Memphis leading 67-40, Morant fell hard while attempting to score, and his absence proved pivotal as the Thunder stormed back in the second half.
Chet Holmgren was the standout performer for Oklahoma City, scoring 23 of his 24 points in a second-half surge that energized the Thunder. Holmgren also contributed eight rebounds, showcasing his all-around game. He was instrumental in the Thunder's offensive revival, hitting crucial shots that helped narrow the gap.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander also stepped up, leading the Thunder with 31 points and eight assists while shooting 10-for-26 from the field and a perfect 9-for-9 from the free-throw line. Jalen Williams added 26 points, including critical free throws that gave the Thunder their first lead of the game in the closing minutes.
For Memphis, Scotty Pippen Jr. led the scoring with 28 points, falling just two shy of his career high. Jaren Jackson Jr. contributed 22 points, but the team struggled to maintain their first-half momentum without Morant.
Interim coach Tuomas Iisalo acknowledged the impact of Morant's injury, stating, "I would say quite drastically from the end result. But not only the energy, but also the execution." Morant had 15 points and five assists before leaving the game.
The Grizzlies had established a commanding lead in the first half, outscoring the Thunder 77-51 by halftime. Memphis shot over 55% from the field, fueled by their three-point shooting. However, the Thunder came out of the locker room determined to change the course of the game.
In the third quarter, Oklahoma City outscored Memphis 36-18, gradually chipping away at the deficit. Holmgren's shooting sparked the Thunder's resurgence, and they began to apply pressure on the Grizzlies.
As the fourth quarter unfolded, the Thunder continued their offensive onslaught. A series of crucial plays, including a slam dunk from Holmgren and a trio of free throws from Gilgeous-Alexander, allowed Oklahoma City to tie the game and eventually take the lead.
The Thunder's defense, which had been lackluster in the first half, tightened up significantly in the final quarter. Alex Caruso's on-ball defense and ability to force turnovers were key to the Thunder's comeback.
Game 4 of the series is set for Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. CT in Memphis, where the Thunder will look to complete the sweep. With Morant's status uncertain following his injury, the Grizzlies will need to regroup quickly if they hope to extend the series.
As the playoffs continue, the Thunder's resilience and ability to adapt in the face of adversity have been on full display, making them a formidable contender in this postseason. Can they maintain this momentum and secure a place in the next round? Only time will tell.
