Jabari Walker contributed significantly with 18 points and 12 rebounds, playing a key role in the Blazers’ efforts to get back into the game. Delano Banton came on in overtime, scoring eight of his 10 points to help seal the victory for Portland. Toumani Camara added 15 points to the Blazers’ cause, while Ashton Hagans recorded career highs with 13 points and eight assists, and Duop Reath scored 12 points.
Despite falling behind significantly early in the fourth quarter, Portland mounted a spirited comeback fueled by Simons, who scored 16 points in the period. The Blazers’ resilience paid off when Jabari Walker made two crucial free throws with 1.3 seconds remaining to send the game into overtime.
For the Grizzlies, Santi Aldama and Vince Williams Jr. led the scoring with 21 points each, while GG Jackson added 17. Despite their efforts, Memphis suffered its fifth straight loss, unable to contain Portland’s late surge.
Both teams have struggled due to multiple injuries and key players have been sidelined. Portland missed out on the services of Scoot Henderson, Malcolm Brogdon, Shaedon Sharpe, Robert Williams III and Deandre Ayton, while Jerami Grant left the game in the second quarter due to right quad soreness. On the other hand, Memphis had a long injury list, including Jaren Jackson Jr., Derrick Rose, Ja Morant, Desmond Bane and Marcus Smart.
Despite the absences, both teams showed determination and resilience, resulting in an exciting and hard-fought contest that ultimately ended in favor of the Trail Blazers, marking their second straight victory over the Grizzlies in as many nights.
(Contributions from Reuters)
