Memphis, Tenn. • Lauri Markkanen and Jordan Clarkson each scored 26 points and the Utah Jazz held off the Memphis Grizzlies 127-121 on Friday night in the NBA In-Season Tournament.
John Collins added 18, and Ochai Agbaji had 15 to help the Jazz snap a four-game losing streak in their tournament opener.
“It’s been a tough stretch and they’ve maintained their work ethic, their composure as a group,” Jazz head coach Will Hardy said. “They’ve stuck together. They’ve just come to work every day.”
Desmond Bane led Memphis with 37 points. The Grizzlies are an NBA-worst 1-8 and are 0-2 in the tournament.
Bismack Biyombo added 15 points and 14 rebounds for Memphis. Jacob Gilyard, Luke Kennard and Jaren Jackson Jr. each had 14 points each, with Jackson ejected in the third quarter.
The Grizzlies’ frustration reached its peak in that third quarter. Upset over the officiating, coach Taylor Jenkins drew a technical. Then Jackson was demonstrative about his feelings, drawing two quick technicals and ejection.
By the time everything settled, Utah led 101-80.
The Grizzlies rallied to cut into the lead, getting as close as 105-104 early in the fourth quarter. But the Jazz held on for the win.
“It’s a good learning moment. When the game gets hectic and the arena gets hectic, we have to maintain our composure,” Hardy said. “But down the stretch, a lot of guys made some big plays. We showed a lot of poise as a group to pull out the win.”
Up next
The Jazz open a three-game homestand against Portland on Tuesday.
