Thunder Overcome 21-Point Deficit to Edge Grizzlies 117-116

Jalen Williams led the Oklahoma City Thunder with a season-best 26 points, while Ajay Mitchell added 23 and Kenrich Williams contributed a season-high 21 off the bench in a remarkable 117-116 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday night. The Thunder erased a 21-point second-half deficit, outscoring Memphis 71-51 after halftime to secure the win on the road.

Oklahoma City’s comeback began when they trailed 114-103 with just 3:32 remaining. A relentless 14-0 run culminated with a three-pointer from Kenrich Williams, giving the Thunder their first lead since early in the game at 1:07 left. Lu Dort sealed the rally with two free throws under a minute remaining, putting Oklahoma City ahead 117-114.

Memphis’ Jock Landale responded with a putback at 37.3 seconds, but a potential go-ahead jumper by Cedric Coward was blocked by Alex Caruso in the final moments.

Jaren Jackson Jr. led the Grizzlies with 23 points, while GG Jackson matched a season high of 18 off the bench. Santi Aldama added 15 points, and Landale finished with 13 points and 10 rebounds. Guard Cam Spencer facilitated the offense, dishing out 11 assists despite scoring none during the first half.

Oklahoma City, the reigning NBA champions, played without stars Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Isaiah Hartenstein. Gilgeous-Alexander, last season’s MVP, is averaging 31.9 points per game, and Holmgren contributes 18.2 points per game. The Thunder, who opened the season 24-1, have a more modest 8-6 record over their last 14 games.

The Grizzlies were missing two-time All-Star guard Ja Morant for the fourth consecutive game due to a right calf contusion. Morant has missed over half of Memphis’ 38 games this season because of various injuries. Speculation arose on Friday that the team might consider trading Morant before the February 5 deadline.

Memphis once led by 20 points in the second quarter, thanks to Jackson Jr.’s contributions and Cam Spencer’s playmaking effort. Spencer’s nine assists in the first half were crucial in building their early lead.

With this latest result, the Thunder have now won 16 straight games against the Grizzlies, including playoff matchups. Memphis has lost six of seven games in recent outings, struggling without Morant in the lineup.