Fri Apr 25 04:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Grizzlies Suffer Crushing Playoff Defeat After Morant Injury

**Memphis, TN –** The Memphis Grizzlies suffered a devastating 108-114 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 3 of their Western Conference first-round playoff series on April 24th (Japan time April 25th). The defeat, which saw the Grizzlies squander a 29-point lead, leaves them facing elimination down 0-3 in the series.

The Grizzlies started strong, with Scottie Pippen Jr. scoring 14 points in the first quarter, including four consecutive three-pointers. Memphis shot an impressive 53.3% from three-point range in the opening period, taking a 40-29 lead.

However, the game took a dramatic turn in the second quarter when star point guard Ja Morant suffered a lower-body injury after a hard collision with Lu Dort. Morant, who was visibly in pain, left the game and did not return. Even Grizzlies’ 2-way contract player Yuya Kawamura, although unable to play, expressed concern from the sidelines.

Despite a commanding 77-51 halftime lead, the Grizzlies’ offense faltered significantly in Morant’s absence. The Thunder outscored Memphis 36-18 in the third quarter, erasing the majority of the Grizzlies’ lead. The Thunder completed the comeback in the fourth quarter, securing a shocking victory.

The severity of Morant’s injury is currently unknown, leaving the Grizzlies facing a daunting task to overcome the 0-3 deficit and avoid elimination from the playoffs.

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