Jaren Jackson Jr. scored 27 points and Jaylen Wells added 25 as the Memphis Grizzlies outlasted the New Orleans Pelicans 133-128 in overtime Wednesday at the Smoothie King Center.
Zach Edey contributed 21 points, 15 rebounds and two blocks, helping Memphis improve to 7-12 overall and 2-1 in West Group B of the NBA Cup.
The Pelicans finished in-season tournament play winless at 0-4, despite Jose Alvarado’s 24 points and Zion Williamson’s 17 points keeping New Orleans competitive throughout regulation.
New Orleans led by as many as 17 points in the first half, fueled by Alvarado hitting six 3-pointers to help the Pelicans take a 68-53 halftime advantage.
Memphis opened the third quarter with a 13-2 run, hitting six of eight shots from deep, allowing the Grizzlies to trim the deficit and set up a close fourth quarter where neither team led by more than nine.
Williamson tied the game at 122 with a driving scoop off the glass with 0.9 seconds left, sending the contest into overtime.
In the extra period, Alvarado’s sixth 3-pointer tied it at 128, but Jackson found Wells for a decisive dunk that gave Memphis the lead for good. New Orleans had three more possessions but could not convert, with Williamson turning the ball over on one and missing a late 3 on another.
Edey’s presence on the floor was crucial, as Memphis outscored New Orleans by 39 points during his 35 minutes of action, highlighting his impact on both ends of the court.
The Grizzlies will travel to face the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday in West Group B NBA Cup play, while the Pelicans visit Golden State on Saturday.
