Luke Kennard delivered a season-best performance with 30 points, and Ja Morant added 28 as the Memphis Grizzlies secured a 122-115 victory over the Utah Jazz on Wednesday night. Kennard was on fire from beyond the arc, hitting seven of his nine three-point attempts, while Morant connected on four of seven. Desmond Bane also contributed 17 points as Memphis extended its winning streak to four games, strengthening its push for home-court advantage in the playoffs.
The Jazz, now winless in March and on a seven-game losing streak, fought hard but couldn’t hold on in the final moments. Collin Sexton led Utah with 22 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists, while John Collins also scored 22 points. Sexton gave the Jazz a brief 115-114 lead with 1:16 remaining, but Kennard responded immediately with a clutch three-pointer to put the Grizzlies back in front. Morant followed with another deep shot, sealing the win with just 12 seconds left.
The game took an unexpected turn when referee Scott Twardoski did not return for the second half due to an undisclosed injury, leaving Ed Malloy and Brandon Schwab to officiate the remainder of the contest as a two-man crew.
Memphis dominated from three-point range, making 20 of 44 attempts compared to Utah’s 12-for-34. Despite the loss, the Jazz controlled the boards, outrebounding the Grizzlies 60-39, including 17 offensive rebounds. Kennard’s biggest moment came with 2:50 left when he sank a three from the right corner, drew a foul from Sexton, and completed the four-point play to give Memphis a 114-111 lead.
UP Next
Both teams return to action on Friday night. The Jazz will host the Toronto Raptors, hoping to end their losing skid, while the Grizzlies continue their four-game homestand against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Memphis remains in the hunt for a strong playoff position, while Utah looks to snap its cold streak and regain momentum.
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