The Memphis Grizzlies' "Grit and Grind" mantra isn't just something that they use to sell T-shirts. It's a way of thinking, a way of approaching the game, that pays major dividends when everything kicks into gear.
Everything indeed kicked into gear on Sunday night, as Memphis completely dominated the Blazers from the opening tip en route to a commanding 58-39 halftime lead. The Grizzlies would coast from there, securing a dominant 100-86 win in front of a sell-out home crowd at the FedExForum.
Key Stat:
Besides the whole points thing?? How about the fact that Portland was ice cold from the field all night, connecting on just 33.7% of their shots overall (32-of-95).
Memphis MVP:
It was a team effort through and through, but Sunday was reserve guard Beno Udrih's national coming out party. Udrih dazzled on both ends of the floor, scoring a team-high 20 points to go with seven rebounds and seven assists, while terrorizing Damian Lillard on D whenever he was on the floor.
Portland MVP:
LaMarcus Aldridge was the only Blazers player to really show up on offense, posting a double-double of 32 points and 14 rebounds. However, he did have to take 34 shots to get those 34 points...
What's Next?
After two days of rest, the Blazers and Grizzlies will return to FedEx Forum for Wednesday's Game 2. Tipoff is slated for shortly after 7:00pm local time.
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