The Memphis Grizzlies suffered one of the most lopsided defeats in NBA playoff history on Sunday afternoon, falling 131–80 to the Oklahoma City Thunder. It was a dominant performance from OKC on both ends of the floor, as their collective effort overwhelmed a Grizzlies squad led by Ja Morant, who struggled to find his rhythm.
Morant, typically the engine of Memphis’ offense, was held to just 17 points. After the game, he delivered a brief but defiant message about the team’s mindset going forward in the series: “We’ll never play that bad again,” he said, determined to rally the Grizzlies after a demoralizing Game 1 loss.
The game got out of hand early, with the Thunder going on an astonishing 53–17 run and never looking back. The 51-point margin marked the largest playoff victory in franchise history for Oklahoma City—a staggering result for a first-round opener.
Daigneault prepares for a different Grizzlies team
Despite the historic nature of the win, Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault isn’t reading too much into the result. With Game 2 set for Tuesday, he’s preparing for a much tougher battle.
“We did a good job setting the tone to start the game,” Daigneault told reporters. “We were sharp, focused. But look—they played 36 hours ago and had an emotional win against Dallas. Then they had to turn around and play at noon. That’s a brutal turnaround.”
Daigneault emphasized that he expects a much-improved Memphis team in Game 2. “They’re going to be fresher. They’re big-time competitors. So, we need to be ready. They’ll be much better.”
One advantage for OKC? Their ability to close games early. With Sunday’s outcome largely sealed by the third quarter, Daigneault was able to rest key players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander down the stretch.
Jalen Williams on what to expect in game 2
Thunder All-Star Jalen Williams echoed his coach’s sentiments, acknowledging that the Grizzlies’ quick turnaround likely impacted their performance. “They played like 36 hours ago,” Williams said. “They’re going to be way better in Game 2. We can’t take this win for granted.”
Game 2 is scheduled to take place Tuesday night in Oklahoma City, where the Grizzlies will look to bounce back and even the NBA series. For now, though, the Thunder have set the tone—with authority.