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Grizzlies suffer historic playoff meltdown in Game 3 vs. Thunder

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports
By Renzo Pocholo Salao | Last updated Apr 25, 2025 1:50 AM ET

The Memphis Grizzlies were on the wrong side of history Thursday following their Game 3 first-round series matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The Grizzlies led the Thunder 67-40 late in the first half at FedExForum in Memphis, Tenn. But disaster struck just as the home team’s lead approached 30.

Grizzlies star Ja Morant got undercut by Thunder defender Lu Dort during a fastbreak opportunity at the 3:07 mark of the second quarter. Morant crashed violently onto the hardwood after going airborne for what appeared to be a dunk attempt.

Oh my god bro… Ja Morant down on the court in pain after being undercut by Lu Dort.

pic.twitter.com/LtoxSvzuf2
— De️ressed Warriors Fan (@GoIdenState) April 25, 2025

Morant was able to attempt the free throws but was immediately subbed out of the contest. He was unable to return due to a right hip injury.

With Morant out of the picture, the Thunder completely overwhelmed the Grizzlies in the second half. Trailing 77-51 at the break, Oklahoma City outscored Memphis 63-31 over the final two quarters to steal a 114-108 win on the road.

The Thunder’s comeback from the 26-point halftime deficit became the largest in NBA playoff history. They also trailed by as many as 29 points in the second quarter, which marked the second-largest comeback in any NBA postseason game.

THUNDER STRIKE BACK IN THE SECOND HALF ⚡️

OKC completes the largest halftime comeback in NBA playoff history to take a 3-0 lead over the Grizzlies! pic.twitter.com/8sIfjd4gWZ
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) April 25, 2025

The Grizzlies went scoreless over the game’s final 4:51. A free throw from Jalen Williams with 1:20 remaining gave OKC its first lead of the contest.

The trio of Williams, Chet Holmgren, and MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander combined for 81 points to give the Thunder a decisive 3-0 lead in the series.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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