News - Celtics Climb in Last Quarter to Defeat Grizzlies

Led by Jaylen Brown's impressive performance, the Boston Celtics rallied in the fourth quarter to defeat the Memphis Grizzlies 117-112, securing their fourth straight victory in the process. Brown recorded a game-high 30 points, while Luke Garza delivered a season-high 22 points, including a crucial 11 in the final period. Payton Pritchard contributed 19 points as well, solidifying Boston's offensive prowess. Derrick White and Jayson Tatum also played pivotal roles, adding 14 and 13 points, respectively, with Tatum matching his point total with nine rebounds. Neemias Queta provided a double-double performance with 12 points and 11 rebounds, supporting Boston's defensive edge over Memphis. With this win, the Boston Celtics remained closely in the running with the Detroit Pistons for the Eastern Conference top seed, maintaining their four-game lead. The Memphis Grizzlies, though driven by a commendable bench effort, failed to hold onto a lead they had maintained earlier in the game. Notable contributions came from Tyler Burton, who tallied 23 points off the bench, while Ty Jerome and Olivier-Maxence Prosper added 16 and 14 points alongside collective seven assists. DeJon Jarreau and Javon Small each added 13 points, showing competitive spirit throughout. Starting the final quarter with a slight edge, Memphis soon saw their advantage bolstered to 98-91. Jaylen Wells capitalized on a steal for a fastbreak layup. However, Boston regrouped determinedly, executing a decisive 10-0 run that began when Jarreau last gave Memphis a lead at 103-102. Baylor Scheierman capped the run with a layup, providing Boston a commanding 112-103 lead with only 1:47 remaining. Tatum, returning from an extended hiatus due to a ruptured Achilles, played his second game back, contributing two points in the crucial run. Previously in the third quarter, Memphis had erased a minor deficit of 59-56, extending their control of the game with several six-point leads. Cam Spencer showcased his shooting with two key 3-pointers, establishing a 88-84 lead entering the closing quarter. During the first half, Boston held a narrow 55-54 lead driven by the efforts of Brown and Pritchard. Tatum experienced shooting difficulties, hitting just one of ten attempts. Nevertheless, free-throw success with 15 out of 17 shots made, combined with a 30-20 rebounding dominance, underscored Boston's overall superior play, setting the stage for their eventual comeback.