Mon Feb 24 01:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Jackson’s Last-Second Block Secures Grizzlies’ Win Over Magic
**Orlando, FL** – Jaren Jackson Jr. solidified his claim as the NBA Defensive Player of the Year frontrunner, delivering a game-winning block in the final seconds to secure a thrilling 105-104 Memphis Grizzlies victory over the Orlando Magic on Friday night.
With eight seconds remaining and the score tied, Orlando’s Paolo Banchero drove to the basket, but Jackson rose to reject his shot, sealing the win for Memphis. The block capped off a strong performance for Jackson, who finished with 16 points, four rebounds, and three blocks.
The game was a tight contest throughout. The Magic led by as many as 11 points in the fourth quarter, but the Grizzlies mounted a furious comeback, fueled by Ja Morant’s 23 points, four rebounds, and five assists. Morant’s clutch layup tied the game before Jackson’s decisive block. Desmond Bane also contributed 16 points for Memphis.
Franz Wagner led the Magic with 25 points, while Banchero added 21. Despite their efforts, Orlando’s late-game collapse dropped them to 28-30, further jeopardizing their playoff chances in the Eastern Conference.
The victory moved Memphis into a tie with Denver for the second-best record in the Western Conference at 37-19. The Grizzlies, winners of six of their last ten games, face a tough test next, playing the league-leading Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday. Orlando, meanwhile, hosts the Washington Wizards.
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