The Grizzlies survived a late comeback push to defeat the Cavaliers 132-121 in the 2021-22 season opener on Wednesday night at FedExForum.
Ja Morant scored 11 of his game-high 37 points in the final quarter and added six rebounds, six assists and two blocks. Desmond Bane tied his career-high, scoring 22 points to go with three rebounds and two steals. De’Anthony Melton went 4-for-6 from 3-point range for 20 points and four rebounds. Jaren Jackson Jr. finished with 13 points, six rebounds and four blocks.
Jarrett Allen led the Cavaliers with 25 points on 11-of-11 shooting and four rebounds while Evan Mobley and Collin Sexton notched 17 points each for the Cavaliers, who cut a 16-point Memphis lead to 119-118 before the Grizzlies scored 11 straight and closed on a 13-3 run.