Mon Oct 28 20:10:00 UTC 2024: ## Grizzlies Dominate Magic in Home Opener, Aldama Leads with 22 Points

**MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) -** The Memphis Grizzlies opened their home season with a resounding 124-111 victory over the Orlando Magic on Saturday night. Santi Aldama led the charge with 22 points, while reserve center Jay Huff set a career-high with 18 points.

Ja Morant, making his first regular-season home appearance since January, contributed 16 points and 10 assists. Aldama was incredibly efficient, hitting 9 of 12 shots from the field, while Huff was 7-for-9.

The Grizzlies built a commanding 26-point lead at halftime, largely thanks to 14 first-half turnovers by the Magic, which resulted in 21 Memphis points. The Magic, who had held opponents to an average of 99 points in their first two games, struggled to find their rhythm against a strong Memphis defense.

Orlando mounted a furious rally in the third quarter, scoring 21 consecutive points to cut into the Grizzlies’ lead. However, Memphis held on, ultimately outscoring Orlando 35-21 in the quarter.

Despite the Magic’s third-quarter surge, the Grizzlies proved too strong, closing out the game for the victory. Orlando will travel to Indiana on Monday before embarking on a five-game road trip. Memphis hosts the Brooklyn Nets on Monday night.

Franz Wagner led the Magic with 23 points, while Jalen Suggs added 21. Paolo Banchero scored 16 points but struggled from the field, shooting 4 of 12. The Magic as a team shot 43% from the field.

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