Oklahoma City Thunder produced a historic comeback to defeat the Memphis Grizzlies 114-108 in Game 3 of their Western Conference first-round playoff series, taking a commanding 3-0 series lead.
Thunder’s Historic Comeback Shocks Memphis
The Thunder, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams, overcame a massive 29-point first-half deficit to complete one of the greatest comebacks in NBA playoff history.
Gilgeous-Alexander scored 31 points, while Williams added 26 points to power Oklahoma City past a stunned Grizzlies squad.
Chet Holmgren was instrumental in the turnaround, scoring 23 of his 24 points in the second half alone. Oklahoma City didn’t lead until Williams hit a crucial free throw with 1:20 left, putting them ahead 109-108.
“We kind of reconnected to who we are in the second half,” Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault said. “Our response in a game that didn’t feel attainable was great.”
Second-Half Surge Seals the Victory
After falling behind early, the Thunder roared back with aggressive defense and sharp shooting.
Holmgren added two vital free throws with 57.4 seconds remaining, extending the lead.
Moments later, Alex Caruso sealed the win with a breakaway layup with 19.4 seconds to play, as Memphis failed to score in the final 4 minutes and 51 seconds of the game.
The Thunder outscored the Grizzlies 63-31 in the second half, showcasing their resilience and championship mentality.
Grizzlies Lose Morant to Injury at Critical Moment
Morant’s Exit Leaves Memphis Vulnerable
Memphis suffered a major blow late in the second quarter when star guard Ja Morant exited the game with a left hip contusion.
Morant had scored 15 points and dished five assists in just 15 minutes before his injury.
The injury occurred when Morant was undercut by Luguentz Dort while driving to the basket on a fastbreak. After spending several minutes on the floor, Morant attempted two free throws but missed both and was eventually helped off to the locker room.
“He will be evaluated again Friday, and then we’ll know more,” interim Grizzlies coach Tuomas Iisalo said post-game.
Without Morant, the Grizzlies lost their rhythm, and their offense collapsed under the Thunder’s relentless pressure.
Series Outlook: Thunder One Win Away from Sweep
With the victory, the Oklahoma City Thunder are now just one win away from sweeping the Grizzlies and advancing to the Western Conference semifinals.
Game 4 will be crucial for Memphis as they try to regroup without their star player and avoid an early playoff exit.
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