The Memphis Grizzlies secured a 132-123 victory over the Atlanta Hawks on October 6, 2026, in a fast-paced, high-scoring clash that showcased explosive offense from both sides. The Grizzlies used a decisive third-quarter run to pull away, handing the Hawks a tough home defeat.

Match Overview

From the opening tip, the game was played at a blistering pace. The Hawks jumped out to an early lead behind Trae Young's hot shooting, but Memphis responded with relentless transition offense. By halftime, the Grizzlies held a slim 68-64 advantage. The third quarter proved to be the turning point, as Memphis outscored Atlanta 35-22 to build a double-digit cushion. The Hawks mounted a late rally in the fourth, but the Grizzlies' efficient free-throw shooting and clutch baskets down the stretch sealed the win.

Key Moments

• First Quarter: Trae Young scored 14 of his 32 points in the opening frame, giving Atlanta an early 34-30 lead.
• Second Quarter: Ja Morant ignited a 12-2 run with back-to-back acrobatic finishes, pushing Memphis ahead 58-52.
• Third Quarter: Jaren Jackson Jr. blocked three shots in a two-minute span, sparking a 15-0 run that broke the game open.
• Fourth Quarter: Atlanta cut the deficit to six with 4:12 remaining, but Scotty Pippen Jr. hit a corner three to halt the comeback.

Tactical Story

Memphis exploited Atlanta's pick-and-roll defense by attacking the paint relentlessly. The Grizzlies scored 62 points in the paint and shot 52% from the field. Defensively, they switched aggressively on screens, forcing the Hawks into contested jumpers. Atlanta, meanwhile, relied heavily on Young's creation, but their secondary ball-handlers struggled against Memphis's length. The Grizzlies also dominated the boards, out-rebounding Atlanta 48-39, leading to numerous second-chance opportunities.

Standout Players

• Ja Morant (MEM): 28 points, 12 assists, 5 rebounds – controlled the tempo and delivered in crunch time.
• Jaren Jackson Jr. (MEM): 24 points, 9 rebounds, 4 blocks – a two-way force in the paint.
• Zach Edey (MEM): 16 points, 11 rebounds – dominated the glass and provided a strong interior presence.
• Trae Young (ATL): 32 points, 11 assists – kept the Hawks within striking distance but committed 6 turnovers.
• Jalen Johnson (ATL): 24 points, 10 rebounds – efficient scoring night but limited help defensively.

Season Impact

This win improves the Grizzlies' early-season record and reinforces their status as a Western Conference contender. For the Hawks, the loss highlights defensive concerns that could plague them in a competitive Eastern Conference. Both teams will look to build on this performance as they continue their schedules.