Memphis Grizzlies head coach Tuomas Iisalo highlighted the team’s recovery after a six-game losing streak following Monday’s 137-128 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves. “I think it’s a longer process than just last game. Past few weeks have been very physically and emotionally taxing,” Iisalo said, referencing recent travel and the European trip.
Iisalo emphasized the team’s commitment during practice and preparation. “If you saw how the guys for example work today in the shoot around and how they’re going about their craft, it’s pretty impressive,” he said, praising the effort of players like Ty Jerome.
The coach explained the decision to manage Jerome’s minutes in the fourth quarter. “We discussed this in the pregame about the communication between the different parties… we are well in the game and want to preserve those last two to three minutes for him that he can come in and close the game as somebody who’s very sure with the ball and knows how to make those decisions.”
Reflecting on the emotional impact of snapping the losing streak, Iisalo said, “Feels like finally… we played some good basketball during that stretch. We’ve been a little unlucky in certain categories, and teams played really well against us. Now we’ve been able to maintain that and hopefully reverse the trend.”
Jaren Jackson Jr.’s return was a key factor in execution, according to the coach. “Jaren helps with everything. It’s not just the execution, but also the menu we have on the offensive end and defensive end. Having him back, along with a few guys playing really well offensively, really helps us,” Iisalo said.
The coach highlighted Jerome’s basketball IQ and skillset. “He’s just amazing at perception-action coupling… He reads the body language of defenders, manipulates them, and creates space for himself or others. His basketball IQ is just off the charts.”
Iisalo also praised Vince Williams Jr.’s versatility. “Vince is a real Swiss Army knife for us… he can really bother players up and down the lineup, from one to four, and this wasn’t the first game he’s done a great job with that.”
Memphis built a 20-point second-half lead behind Jackson’s 30 points and Jerome’s 19. Jaylen Wells added 18, while Cam Spencer and Williams scored 16 each. Minnesota’s Anthony Edwards led all scorers with 39 points, but the Timberwolves could not overcome the deficit.
