Jaren Jackson Jr. put up an impressive 39 points, while Scotty Pippen Jr. marked his first professional triple-double, propelling the Memphis Grizzlies to a 128-104 victory over the Washington Wizards on Friday night. This decisive win marks the Grizzlies’ fourth triumph in five games.

Pippen’s Triple-Double and Jackson’s High Score Lead Grizzlies to Victory

Scotty Pippen Jr. showcased his prowess with 11 points, 11 assists, and 10 rebounds. Meanwhile, Grizzlies’ rookie Zach Edey stood tall with 14 points, eight rebounds, and two blocks, with Santi Aldama contributing an additional 12 points. The Grizzlies held a commanding lead of at least 20 points for most of the second half, consigning the Wizards to their third consecutive defeat.

Wizards Struggle with Injuries and Rookie Lineup

The Wizards grappled with injuries to key players, fielding a couple of rookies and second-year player Bilal Coulibaly in their starting lineup. Their inexperience was evident in the 13 turnovers in the first half, which allowed Memphis to build a substantial lead.

Grizzlies’ Pace and Dominance in the Paint

The Grizzlies have been consistently ramping up the pace this season, positioning them among the top five in the league. This forced Wizards coach Brian Keefe to incessantly instruct his defenders to fall back throughout much of the game.

Key Moment of the Game

With 3:50 remaining in the third quarter and Memphis leading by 24, a scuffle ensued between 7-foot-4 Edey and Wizards veteran 7-footer Jonas Valanciunas. The confrontation resulted in a couple of shoves, elbowing, and double-technicals against both centers before play was halted.

Memphis Continues to Dominate the Paint

The Grizzlies continue to assert their dominance in the paint against their opponents. As the league leader averaging 60 points a game inside, the Grizzlies delivered up to their usual standard.

What’s Next for Both Teams?

The Wizards will face Orlando on Sunday, while the Grizzlies are set to visit Portland.

Richard Hayes is the go-to writer for all things soccer at 21Sports.com. His international perspective and in-depth knowledge of the game have made him a trusted voice in the industry. Richard’s experience covering major leagues around the world allows him to offer unique insights that resonate with both casual fans and die-hard enthusiasts. When not covering matches, Richard enjoys coaching youth soccer in his community.