In a stunning turn of events, the Memphis Grizzlies managed to defeat the Dallas Mavericks with a score of 103-120, despite missing their star players, Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr., due to injuries. The Grizzlies (14-23) arrived in Texas merely a day after learning that Morant's shoulder injury would sideline him for the remainder of the season. However, even without their key players, the Grizzlies showcased their strength, defeating the Mavericks (22-16), who previously conquered the Western Conference leaders, the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Luka Doncic, the Mavericks' shining star, encountered a challenging night as he battled discomfort in both his thigh and ankle. To make matters worse, he suffered a hard blow when Bismack Biyombo fell on him during the first quarter. Nevertheless, Doncic accumulated impressive statistics, ending the game with 31 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists. Unfortunately, there was a lack of support from his teammates, leaving him to carry the burden alongside Kyrie Irving, who contributed 33 points and 8 rebounds for the Mavericks.
On the Grizzlies' front, Desmond Bane emerged as the leader with an outstanding performance, scoring 32 points and securing 9 rebounds. Marcus Smart also had an impactful game with 23 points, but his performance was cut short in the second half due to a finger injury on his right hand.
Despite the absence of key players, the Grizzlies displayed their resilience and determination, with six players reaching double figures in scoring. Remarkably, they outperformed the Mavericks in crucial aspects such as rebounds (60 to 41), bench points (44 to 23), and field goal success (48.4% to 43.9%).
The game began with the Mavericks holding a comfortable lead, courtesy of Doncic's effortless playmaking and scoring abilities. However, the Grizzlies, undeterred by their troubled season, showcased exceptional character, closing the first period with a powerful 6-20 run led by the active presence of Desmond Bane, who scored 12 points.
In the second quarter, the Mavericks attempted a comeback behind Doncic and Irving's combined efforts. Nevertheless, the Grizzlies maintained control over the game, displaying authority and consistency. David Roddy contributed significantly, amassing 11 points during this period, including a memorable dunk on Josh Green. With a commanding +22 lead before halftime, the Grizzlies secured a comfortable 53-68 advantage.
Despite scoring 17 points and 15 points from Doncic and Irving respectively, the Mavericks' remaining players struggled to make an impact throughout the game. The trend continued after halftime, where the Mavericks' defense proved porous, allowing the Grizzlies to gain further advantage. Although Smart hit two crucial three-pointers, he soon exited the game with what appeared to be a dislocated finger.
Despite the Mavericks' efforts, a lack of consistency on both ends of the court led them to a substantial deficit, trailing by 20 points at the start of the final quarter. Although the Mavericks showed slight signs of hope, turnovers and defensive errors hindered their progress. In a decisive moment, Ziaire Williams nailed a three-pointer, extending the Grizzlies' lead to an insurmountable +18 with five minutes remaining.
This unexpected victory for the Grizzlies against a strong Mavericks team, deprived of their star players' contributions, demonstrates the depth and resilience of Memphis. It reminds us that in the NBA, anything is possible, as underdogs can rise to the occasion and triumph against all odds.