Morant triple-doubles as Grizzlies defeat Bucks 142-101

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — Ja Morant had 25 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists, and the Memphis Grizzlies pounded the Milwaukee Bucks 142-101 on Thursday night.

Dillon Brooks had 18 points, Tyus Jones had 16, and eight Grizzlies scored in the double figures. Memphis won its seventh consecutive win from start through finish.

For the NBA’s biggest advantage this season, the Grizzlies took a 50 point lead in the fourth quarter.

Bobby Portis and Giannis Antitookounmpo were the Bucks’ scorers with 19 points each. Milwaukee coach Mike Budenholzer took the bench out of the game in the third quarter.

Two of the best teams from their respective conferences were featured in this game. Milwaukee was one game behind East-leading Boston when the game began, while Memphis was tied with the New Orleans Pelicans for first place in the Western Conference.

The Bucks were unable to win the first half. Halftime: Memphis led by 70 points to 41. Milwaukee had surrendered the most points in a single half this season.

TIP-INS

Bucks: G Jrue Holiday missed the second game because of a non COVID-19-related illness. Serge Ibaka was also late to the game due to the same reason. F Khris Middleton, who was 1 of 12, was also 1 of 8 from the 3-point line. … Milwaukee’s biggest loss in franchise history was by 48 two times, the last time in the 1994-95 season against Orlando.

Grizzlies: With 147 career wins, Coach Taylor Jenkins is tied for second with Dave Joerger. With 214 wins, Lionel Hollins is the Memphis coach with the most victories. F/C Brandon Clarke shot all six of the shots in this game. He has also connected on 55 out of 77 shots during his previous 11 games. Steven Adams recorded five blocks, a record for the season.

UP NEXT

Bucks: Sunday, face the Utah Jazz

Grizzlies: Come to Oklahoma City to meet the Thunder on Saturday.

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