Mexican basketball player Karim Lopez made his debut during the Memphis Grizzlies’ 124-103 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers. Selected in the first round of the 2026 Draft, the Sonora native logged three minutes of action and secured one rebound.
Memphis Extends Undefeated Streak to Five Games
The Grizzlies preserved their unblemished record to start the campaign, moving to five wins without a loss behind balanced scoring. Cameron Boozer and Isaiah Stewart each paced the Memphis offense with 18 points apiece. In total, nine different Grizzlies players scored in double figures, a group that included three substitutes. Portland was led by Deni Avdija, who recorded 24 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists.
Ja Morant Exits After Facing Former Team
Playing in his first game against his former team, Ja Morant contributed 14 points and three assists across 23 minutes on the floor. However, his evening ended prematurely in the fourth quarter when he sustained a hamstring injury and did not return to the contest. Meanwhile, Damian Lillard struggled from the field for the Trail Blazers, converting just three of his 13 field goal attempts only one game after sinking a decisive three-pointer against the Los Angeles Lakers.
Third-Quarter Surge Breaks Open the Contest
Holding a narrow two-point edge late in the third frame, Memphis seized control with a decisive 10-0 run that pushed the score to 87-75 with over two minutes remaining in the quarter. Zach Edey later punctuated the Grizzlies’ momentum with a three-pointer at the nine-minute mark of the fourth period, extending the lead to 96-85 and forcing Portland to burn a timeout.
Morant briefly trimmed the deficit to 96-87 following the stoppage, but Memphis answered immediately. Western Conference Player of the Week Ty Jerome tallied two consecutive baskets to rebuild a 101-89 advantage. Jerome finished the night with 10 points on 3-of-12 shooting, continuing a dip in offensive efficiency following a strong start to the year. The Grizzlies ultimately pulled away as both benches cleared, outscoring Portland 33-20 in the final quarter.
Next Scheduled Matchup
The Memphis Grizzlies return to action in their next scheduled fixture as they continue their early-campaign schedule.
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