The Memphis Grizzlies fell to the Miami Heat Sunday night in an early East coast game, their fourth of the preseason. Santi Aldama and David Roddy got the starting nod alongside Derrick Rose, Desmond Bane and Jaren Jackson Jr.
Desmond Bane led the way in scoring for the Grizzlies with 26 points in 25 minutes, alongside three assists and four rebounds. Ziaire Williams was second with 19 points, three rebounds and two assists off the bench.
Bam Adebayo took charge for the Heat, as Memphis didn’t have the size to contain him without Steven Adams’ presence on the inside. He managed to score 26 points and grab six boards while anchoring a stifling and physical Miami defense. Tyler Herro also earned 30 points and six assists with a variety of different shots that created a problem for the Grizzlies defense.
Despite the strength of Miami’s defense, Memphis managed to shoot well, going 19/48 (39%) from three. The young wings shot particularly well from beyond the arc, and their shotmaking will be key to the team’s offensive production in the beginning of then season without Ja Morant. Ziaire Williams in particular continued to shine in his minutes, and he continues to make his case to be in the starting lineup.
After three quarters, Kenneth Lofton Jr. and Jacob Gillyard took over to close the game out, giving the starters some rest as they continue to ramp up for the season. Miami continued the momentum up until then that had closed the Grizzlies lead, and they surged ahead behind stout two-way play, leading to the second Memphis loss of the preseason.
The Grizzlies will travel to Milwaukee Friday to take on the Bucks in their final preseason game with hopes of finishing the preseason strong.