Story by
GG Jackson's career-high 27 points leads Grizzlies to upset vs Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bucks
- Story by
- GG Jackson's career-high 27 points leads Grizzlies to upset vs Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bucks
One night after the Memphis Grizzlies finally solved their fourth quarter issues, they were put to the test again.
This time Memphis had to hold off the Milwaukee Bucks and former two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo after creating a nine-point lead through three quarters.
Advertisement
Milwaukee rallied and took a lead midway through the fourth quarter, but the Grizzlies responded. GG Jackson, Ziaire Williams and Vince Williams Jr. each scored clutch baskets to lead Memphis to a 113-110 upset win on Thursday night at FedExForum.
Jackson tied a career high with 27 points. Ziaire Williams also scored 27 points. Six Grizzlies scored in double figures.
Memphis (20-36) struggled to handle Antetokounmpo. He led the Bucks (35-21) with 35 points.
Here are some takeaways.
New Grizzlies starting lineup
Memphis unveiled its 32nd starting lineup this season. Jordan Goodwin and Ziaire Williams joined Vince Williams, Santi Aldama and Trey Jemison . Goodwin, Ziaire Williams and Vince Williams formed a strong perimeter defensive trio that was determined to do the dirty work. Goodwin was crashing the offensive glass, and Vince Williams did everything defensively from guard quick Bucks point guard Damian Lillard to matchup up in the post against the 6-foot-11 Antetokounmpo.
Advertisement
No fear in GG Jackson
Jackson is instant offense for the Grizzlies. He's giving Memphis a scoring option off of the bench that the team has missed for many years. His efficiency has had mixed results this season, but that's expected for a rookie. He was in a zone against the Bucks and scored a quick 11 points in six minutes played during the first quarter.
Jackson was playing so well that he launched a deep 3-pointer after making four 3-pointers. He missed the shot and tapped his chest to signal that it was a bad shot, but it was an example of the 19-year-old's soaring confidence.
GG JACKSON: Grizzlies' GG Jackson shining on national TV again: 'TNT brings out the best in him!'
Advertisement
Staying the course
The Bucks had the talent advantage on paper, but the Grizzlies are playing tough and connected basketball. Despite being the smaller team, the Grizzlies had the rebound advantage. Vince Williams secured a career-high 12 rebounds to lead the charge. The Grizzlies' defensive effort combined with 50% shooting on 13 made 3-pointers led Memphis to the win.
What's next
Memphis will begin its week-long all-star break. The Grizzlies won't be back in action until Feb. 23 at home against the Los Angeles Clippers .
Vince Williams will represent the Grizzlies and participate in Friday's NBA Rising Stars challenge.
Advertisement
The All-Star break will allow the Grizzlies to reset and also get closer to getting healthy.
This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: GG Jackson scores 27, leads Grizzlies to upset vs Bucks, Giannis
