Malik Monk’s standout performance in overtime, featuring 12 of his 28 total points, propelled the Sacramento Kings to a 121-111 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies during Monday’s NBA action. The Kings showcased resilience and depth, with Domantas Sabonis continuing his impressive streak of double-doubles.
“Having a guy like Malik close the way he did was a lot of fun to watch,” Sacramento coach Mike Brown commented, praising Monk’s ability to seize control in crucial moments.
Monk, reflecting on his overtime performance, shared, “I feel like I was relaxing a little bit in the fourth quarter. I was just able to turn that around in overtime and we got the win,” underscoring his crucial contributions to the Kings’ victory.
Sabonis contributed significantly with 25 points and 18 rebounds, while De’Aaron Fox added 23 points and 10 assists, demonstrating Sacramento’s multifaceted attack.
Memphis faced an uphill battle in overtime, with the Kings executing a decisive 12-0 run sparked by Monk’s scoring and playmaking. “It’s always great when you have multiple guys who can take over a game,” Fox said, highlighting the team’s collective ability to impact the game.
The Grizzlies’ effort was led by Jaren Jackson Jr. with 25 points, though the team struggled to counter Sacramento’s late surge. Memphis coach Taylor Jenkins commended his team’s competitiveness and acknowledged the Kings’ clutch plays as the difference-maker.
“Very proud of how our guys competed,” Jenkins said. “Give the Kings credit, they made big-time plays: Fox at the end of the fourth, Monk taking over in overtime. That was a high-level basketball game. Our guys should be extremely proud.”
The Kings overcame adversity, including the early loss of starting guard Kevin Huerter to a shoulder injury, showcasing their depth and resilience. Despite this setback, Sacramento’s performance in the second quarter and strategic adjustments led to a commanding halftime lead.
The Grizzlies’ fourth-quarter rally tied the game, setting the stage for an intense overtime battle. However, Sacramento’s execution and Monk’s dominance in the extra period secured the win.
As both teams prepare for their next matchups, with the Grizzlies facing Golden State and the Kings taking on Toronto, Sacramento’s victory over Memphis adds another chapter to their season’s narrative of grit and determination.
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