In a thrilling showdown on March 27, 2025, the Oklahoma City Thunder continued their dominant run by defeating the Memphis Grizzlies 125-104, marking their eighth consecutive victory and a franchise-record 61st win this season. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was the star of the night, scoring an impressive 37 points, further solidifying his case for the league MVP award.
The Thunder, who boast a stellar 61-12 record, have firmly established themselves as the team to beat in the NBA, especially with their young core leading the charge. Gilgeous-Alexander, who has been averaging 32.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 6.2 assists this season, demonstrated his elite scoring ability once again against the Grizzlies. This victory not only showcases the Thunder's prowess but also extends their winning streak against Memphis to nine games, dating back to December 17, 2022.
In addition to Gilgeous-Alexander's brilliance, All-Star Jalen Williams made a triumphant return, contributing 20 points after missing seven games due to a hip injury. Isaiah Hartenstein also played a crucial role, adding 18 points and 11 rebounds to the Thunder's tally. The team’s depth was on full display, even in the face of injury concerns.
On the other side of the court, the Grizzlies faced significant challenges, missing their star point guard Ja Morant for the sixth consecutive game due to a strained hamstring. Morant's absence has been felt deeply, especially in critical moments when the Grizzlies struggled to find their rhythm offensively. Jaren Jackson Jr. led Memphis with 27 points, while Scotty Pippen Jr. added 17 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Thunder's firepower.
The game began with a competitive first half, with Oklahoma City leading narrowly at halftime, 63-59. However, they quickly asserted themselves in the third quarter, starting with an 8-0 run that forced Memphis to call a timeout. Despite a late push from the Grizzlies, the Thunder maintained their composure, leading 91-89 heading into the final quarter.
As the fourth quarter unfolded, the Thunder showcased their offensive efficiency, making 13 of 23 field goals. A crucial three-pointer by Cason Wallace broke a 99-all tie, propelling Oklahoma City to a commanding lead. The Thunder's defense tightened, and they executed a 15-0 run that left the Grizzlies reeling.
For Memphis, the night was compounded by further injury woes. Key reserves Alex Caruso and Jaylin Williams both exited the game and did not return, adding to the Grizzlies' already thin roster. Caruso played just 10 minutes, scoring six points, while Williams contributed three points in eight minutes before leaving the game.
With the win, the Thunder not only clinched the best record in the Western Conference but also positioned themselves as serious contenders for the NBA title. They will look to continue their momentum when they host the Indiana Pacers on March 29, 2025.
Meanwhile, the Grizzlies, now only 2.5 games ahead of the Golden State Warriors for the seventh seed in the Western Conference, face a critical moment in their season. Without Morant and with their playoff positioning in jeopardy, they must regroup quickly and hope to secure a win against the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday.
The Thunder's performance against the Grizzlies is a testament to their depth and resilience, qualities that will be crucial as they approach the playoffs. As the regular season winds down, all eyes will be on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Thunder as they aim to make a deep postseason run.
