The NBA witnessed a thrilling showdown in Memphis, leaving fans on the edge of their seats! In a nail-biting finish, the Atlanta Hawks snatched a 124-122 victory over the Grizzlies on January 21, 2026, breaking their four-game losing streak. But here's the real story:
Jalen Johnson dominated the court with a remarkable 32 points and 15 rebounds, including a crucial basket in the final minute that sealed the deal for Atlanta. But was it a lucky shot or a strategic masterpiece?
The Hawks' Luke Kennard and Onyeka Okongwu contributed 18 points each, providing much-needed support. Meanwhile, the Grizzlies' star player, Ja Morant, led his team with 23 points and 12 assists, but his 3-point attempt at the buzzer missed the mark. Is this a sign of a potential slump for Morant? Jaylen Wells and Jaren Jackson Jr. added 18 and 17 points, respectively, but it wasn't quite enough.
With just over five minutes left in the game, Memphis held a slender 110-108 lead. But Atlanta unleashed a storm, scoring eight unanswered points, including two free throws from Johnson, which proved decisive. Despite a late 3-pointer from Cedric Coward, the Grizzlies couldn't regain the lead.
The game was a back-and-forth affair, with 21 lead changes and 14 ties, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats! The first three quarters were particularly intense, with 16 lead changes and 10 ties, before the Grizzlies took a slight edge into the final quarter. Could this be a sign of poor coaching decisions or simply a testament to the teams' resilience?
Kennard, a former Grizzlies player, seemed to have a point to prove, hitting his first six shots, including four 3-pointers, to give Atlanta an early boost. His performance in the first half was crucial, helping the Hawks reach 16 3-pointers in the game, extending their impressive streak.
With this win, the Hawks prepare to host the Phoenix Suns, while the Grizzlies look to bounce back against the New Orleans Pelicans. Will the Hawks continue their winning ways, or will the Grizzlies find their rhythm again? The NBA never fails to surprise!
