Jaren Jackson Jr. showcased an impressive performance, scoring 38 points and leading the Memphis Grizzlies to a 117-112 victory over the Phoenix Suns. The Grizzlies, without key players Ja Morant and Zach Edey due to injuries, maintained control throughout the game, never trailing once. Desmond Bane also contributed significantly with 31 points, while Luke Kennard added 17 and John Konchar secured a game-high 12 rebounds. This win improved Memphis's record to 23-11, positioning them second in the Western Conference.
On the other side, the Suns welcomed back Devin Booker, who had missed five games due to a left groin strain, and he finished with 16 points and nine assists. Kevin Durant led Phoenix with 29 points and 10 rebounds, but the team struggled, suffering their sixth loss in seven games. The Suns were also without Jusuf Nurkic, who is serving a suspension, and Bradley Beal left the game early with a hip injury.
The game was marked by a high number of fouls, with 54 called and 58 free throws attempted, reflecting the intensity of the match. Jackson Jr. was particularly effective, going 10 of 17 from the free-throw line and contributing ten rebounds to his team's effort. A crucial moment came when Konchar completed a three-point play with just over a minute remaining, extending Memphis's lead to 113-106 after the Suns had narrowed the gap. The Grizzlies will next face the Sacramento Kings, while the Suns are set to play against the Indiana Pacers.
