In one of the most astonishing turnarounds in NBA playoff history, the Oklahoma City Thunder staged a remarkable comeback against the Memphis Grizzlies, overcoming a staggering 29-point deficit to secure a 114-108 victory in Game 3 of their playoff series. This game, held in Memphis, showcased not only the resilience of the Thunder but also raised critical questions regarding the Grizzlies’ performance, particularly in the absence of their star player, Ja Morant.

The contest began with Memphis establishing a commanding lead, thanks in large part to the early offensive efforts of Scottie Pippen Jr., who scored 23 points in the first half, and Ja Morant, who contributed 15 points before suffering a hip injury that would sideline him for the remainder of the game. The Grizzlies held a 65-37 advantage at one point, demonstrating their dominance in the initial stages. However, the injury to Morant proved pivotal, as his absence significantly affected the team’s energy and execution during the second half.

As the game progressed, the Thunder capitalized on Memphis’s mistakes. After being down by 27 points when Morant was injured, Oklahoma City outscored the Grizzlies by 33 points, showcasing their ability to adapt and seize control. Chet Holmgren, who struggled in the first half with just one point, exploded for 16 points in the third quarter alone, finishing the game with 24 points. His performance was instrumental in turning the tide, supported by the contributions of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who recorded 31 points, marking his 50th 30-point game of the season.

The Grizzlies, on the other hand, appeared to lose their composure as the game progressed. Analysts noted that Memphis began taking poor shots and playing out of character, likely in an attempt to compensate for Morant’s absence. This shift in mentality, along with a drop in defensive intensity, allowed the Thunder to exploit opportunities and maintain momentum. The fourth quarter saw Oklahoma City take the lead, culminating in a series of key plays that sealed their victory.

In post-game comments, Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault praised his team’s resilience, emphasizing the importance of their response in a seemingly unattainable situation. He highlighted Holmgren’s mental toughness and ability to deliver under pressure, a trait that will be crucial as the series continues.

Conversely, the defeat left the Grizzlies facing significant scrutiny. Their inability to maintain a commanding lead at home raised questions about their mental fortitude and strategic execution in high-pressure situations. The loss marked the Grizzlies’ third consecutive defeat in the series, placing them on the brink of elimination.

As the Thunder prepare to close out the series in Game 4, the Grizzlies will need to regroup and address the issues that led to this historic collapse. The absence of Morant looms large, but it is the collective performance of the team that will ultimately determine their fate in the playoffs. This game serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of the NBA, where fortunes can shift in an instant, and every player must be prepared to step up in critical moments.