NBA Summer League: Golden State Warriors Edge Memphis Grizzlies in a Tight Contest

In a compelling early-morning tip-off at the 2026 NBA Summer League, the Golden State Warriors defeated the Memphis Grizzlies 94-90 on July 20, 2026. The game, played at the Cox Pavilion in Las Vegas, featured a mix of rookies, second-year players, and fringe roster hopefuls battling for recognition ahead of the regular season. The Warriors used a strong second-half surge to overcome a gritty Grizzlies squad and improve their summer league record.

Match Overview

Both teams entered the contest looking to build momentum in the summer circuit. The Grizzlies jumped out to an early lead, using their athleticism in transition to create easy baskets. However, the Warriors' trademark ball movement and perimeter shooting kept them within striking distance. The lead changed hands multiple times in the fourth quarter, with Golden State finally taking control late on a series of clutch free throws and defensive stops.

Key Moments

• First-half defensive intensity – Memphis held Golden State to just 42 points in the first two quarters, forcing six turnovers and converting them into fast-break points.
• Warriors' third-quarter push – Golden State erupted for 30 points in the third period, shooting 55% from the field and erasing an eight-point halftime deficit.
• Clutch free throws – With under a minute remaining, Warriors guard Brandon Ellis calmly made four consecutive free throws to ice the game, finishing with a team-high 22 points.
• Grizzlies’ missed opportunities – Memphis had a chance to tie the game in the final seconds, but a contested three-pointer from Jake Williams rimmed out, sealing the victory for Golden State.

Player Standouts

For the Warriors, rookie guard Brandon Ellis impressed with his poise under pressure, adding 5 assists and 4 rebounds to his game-high scoring total. Forward Marcus Lyle contributed 14 points and 8 boards, showing promising two-way potential. On the Grizzlies’ side, second-year center Jake Williams recorded a double-double with 18 points and 12 rebounds, while guard Chris Navarro chipped in 16 points and 6 assists. The Grizzlies’ effort was valiant, but they struggled from beyond the arc, hitting only 7 of 27 three-point attempts.

What This Means for the Summer League

The win keeps Golden State undefeated in pool play and positions them as a legitimate contender for the summer league championship. For Memphis, the narrow loss provides valuable teaching moments for a young roster learning to execute down the stretch. With several more games remaining, both teams will look to fine-tune rotations and evaluate talent before the summer league concludes. Fans got a glimpse of rising prospects who could carve out roles in the NBA as early as the 2026-27 season.