New Orleans ends Memphis' perfect season with late free throws
The Pelicans defeated the Grizzlies 135-134 in overtime, capping a game that saw both teams trade leads and end in a heated midcourt argument.
By Ella Cox ·
The New Orleans Pelicans defeated the Memphis Grizzlies 135-134 in overtime on Monday night. The final score reflected a game that came down to the last few seconds, with the Pelicans hitting two free throws to secure the win. This result marked the first loss of the season for Memphis.
The Grizzlies entered the game with a 6-0 record. That start tied the best season opening streak in franchise history. They were the last remaining undefeated team in the NBA. The Pelicans' victory snapped a six-game winning streak for Memphis. New Orleans improved its record to 3-4 with the win.
Zion Williamson scored 25 points for the Pelicans. He added nine of those points during overtime. Jeremiah Fears made the game-winning free throws with 7.3 seconds remaining in the extra period. Karlo Matkovic matched Williamson's total with a career high 25 points. Derik Queen contributed 20 points for New Orleans.
Ty Jerome led the Grizzlies with 40 points. He scored nine straight points in the final 1 minute and 43 seconds of regulation. Those points tied the game at 124 and forced overtime. Jerome missed a 15-foot shot at the end of regulation that would have given Memphis the lead. Cameron Boozer finished with 18 points, and Jaylen Wells added 16.
The Pelicans played without starting guard Dejounte Murray. He missed the game for personal reasons, marking his third absence. Yves Missi and Jordan Poole also sat out due to injuries. The Pelicans defense forced six turnovers in the first half. Queen's 18 points helped keep New Orleans ahead for most of the contest.
Memphis has typically outscored opponents by an average of eight points in the second half. The Pelicans limited that advantage, holding a 100-95 lead entering the fourth quarter. That was only the second time this season Memphis fell behind at the end of three quarters. After the final buzzer, players from both teams engaged in a loud argument at midcourt. Staff had to separate the squads as they continued to shout at each other.
The Pelicans will play the Utah Jazz on Wednesday, Nov. 4. The game is scheduled for the Smoothie King Center.
