Thunder Completes Historic Comeback Against Grizzlies

Dramatic Turnaround in Oklahoma City

In a remarkable display of resilience, the Oklahoma City Thunder staged the second-largest comeback in NBA history early Friday morning, overcoming a 29-point deficit to defeat the Memphis Grizzlies, 108-114. This victory solidifies their commanding 3-0 lead in the playoff series, inching them closer to a potential sweep.

Coach’s Insights on the Team’s Mental Shift

Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault remarked on the significant mental shift observed in his players during the game. “I think at halftime we simply returned to being ourselves. We were not very connected in the first half,” Daigneault stated. Oklahoma City became the first team in playoff history to win a game after trailing by at least 26 points at halftime.

Players Reflect on the Game’s Dynamic

Jalen Williams, who contributed 26 points, highlighted the team’s approach: “When you understand how a lead works, you know that you are never too far behind and that you can’t be too comfortable with a lead.” His key free throw with 1:20 remaining in the game gave the Thunder their first lead of the match.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who led the team with 31 points, nonchalantly noted, “They built a 29-point lead in start half, so for us, all we needed to do was build ourselves a lead like that.” Interestingly, Gilgeous-Alexander was part of the Los Angeles Clippers team that made a 31-point comeback against the Golden State Warriors in April 2019, marking his involvement in two of the greatest comebacks in playoff history.

Grizzlies Face Setbacks

On the other side, the Grizzlies not only suffered a painful defeat but also dealt with the shocking injury to their star player, Ja Morant. He sustained an injury after a collision with Luguentz Dort and was unable to return for the second half. Memphis’s interim coach, Touomas Isalo, expressed the difficulty of the situation: “It’s very hard to explain to somestart who hasn’t been in this situation what the feeling is like.”

As the series continues, the Thunder’s incredible comeback serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of playoff basketball and the importance of mental fortitude in overcoming adversity