The Memphis Grizzlies scored a key early-season victory over the Utah Jazz in a game that reaffirmed the franchise’s “gritty” identity.
While the Memphis Grizzlies came into the 2018-19 season amid mass uncertainty, the forecast was far brighter for the Utah Jazz. Following a torrid second half to 2017-18, the Jazz were touted as a true Western Conference powerhouse, and darkhorse West Finals candidate.
Coming off of a frustrating loss to the almighty Golden State Warriors — in which they blew a double-digit lead and lost on a buzzer-beating tip-in — Utah looked to right the ship against Memphis. However, things did not exactly go as planned for the Jazzmen.
The Grizzlies set the tone, slowing the game down and smothering Utah’s new high-octane attack. As a result, the Jazz fell 92-84, after scoring 123 points in each of their first two games. It was not a pretty win, but emblematic of Memphis Grizzlies teams of the past, and an encouraging sign for the games to come.
Join Beale Street Bears as we break down some important takeaways from Monday’s road victory.