Quick Recap: Memphis Grizzlies defeat Timberwolves

Memphis Grizzlies basketball returned on Saturday night in the city of Minnesota against the revamped Timberwolves in game one of a two game preseason series! Here’s how it all went down.

Photo by Jordan Johnson/NBAE via Getty Images

First Quarter:

The first quarter was a marathon for both sides. The Grizzlies trailed by as much as five in the first. First round draft pick Desmond Bane made his NBA debut for the Grizzlies, and was apart of Memphis’ first ‘four guard lineup.’ John Konchar, and De’Anthony Melton played fantastic off the bench for the Grizzlies in the first quarter. Dropping seven points in only six minutes of first quarter action. With that, the Grizzlies led 34-27 after one quarter in Minnesota.

Second Quarter:

The second quarter featured more of a four guard lineup, and the Grizzlies role players continued to step up. The Memphis rookie class continued to produce, as second round draft pick, Xavier Tillman made his NBA debut for Memphis in the second quarter. Tillman came in and ran the five spot alongside Desmond Bane, and Memphis ran their four guard lineup with a combination of youth movement.

The Grizzlies had 26 bench points in the first half for the Grizzlies as they would lead the Timberwolves 60-54 at the half.

Third Quarter:

The Grizzlies came out of the locker rooms running. Running can be a good thing, and at times can be a bad thing. For the Grizzlies, for as good as it was to them, it also didn’t help much. Breaking in with the Timberwolves 19-19, and at times getting three-point happy on offense left Minnesota hanging around as the Grizzlies led the Wolves 89-77 heading to the fourth quarter.

Fourth Quarter:

The Grizzlies finished the final frame managing the game, and adding to their assist totals. Despite Minnesota making it close late in the fourth quarter, the Grizzlies reserves were able to hold off the Timberwolves as Memphis would escape their first game of the 2020-21 preseason with a 107-105 victory.

Final Stats:

Ja Morant - 20 points, 10 assists, in 24 minutes

Jonas Valanciunas - 13 points and 9 rebounds in 22 minutes

Desmond Bane - 12 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 assists

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