Big fourth quarter carries Grizzlies to win over Trail Blazers

By , Daily Memphian Updated: July 13, 2025 1:07 AM CT | Published: July 13, 2025 12:27 AM CT

Behind a high-scoring fourth quarter, the Memphis Grizzlies defeated the Portland Trail Blazers, 96-86, on Saturday night in the Las Vegas Summer League. 

The win brings the Grizzlies' Las Vegas Summer League record to 1-1.

Memphis was led in scoring by Jaylen Wells, who dropped in 23 points with 19 of them coming in the second half. Cam Spencer also played well, finishing with 17 points and four assists. 

Unavailable

Memphis was still without No. 11 pick Cedric Coward, who is recovering from shoulder surgery. They were also without No. 48 pick Javon Small, who is dealing with a groin strain. 

Third-year wing GG Jackson, who led the team in scoring during the Salt Lake City Summer League, did not play due to illness.

Also missing Saturday’s game was Alex Reese. The Grizzlies added the former Alabama big man (6-foot-9, 245 pounds) to their summer league roster. He missed the game with a heel injury. Reese was recently released by the Philadelphia 76ers. He will compete for a two-way contract.

On the sideline

The second game from Las Vegas brought out more Grizzlies, including Ja Morant, who watched the game from the baseline. 

“It’s different from on TV,” Morant said of his summer league appearance. “I know me being here in person means a lot, not only to these guys but to the organization as well. For me to be the leader of this team, I feel like it was very important, so I took a day trip.”

Scotty Pippen Jr., Zach Edey and free agent signing Ty Jerome were also seated courtside. 

Highlight of the night

Spencer swiped a full-court pass attempt from Portland’s first-round pick Hansen Yang, then side-stepped into a 3-pointer to complete the 4-point play.

Spencer continues to shoot the ball well from 3-point range in summer league. He was added to the main roster earlier this month after playing on a two-way contract last season. 

Grizzlies buy out Anthony

The Grizzlies announced after the game that they had reached a buyout agreement with Cole Anthony.

The 25-year-old guard who played collegiately at North Carolina was acquired by the Grizzlies from the Orlando Magic on June 15.

Up next

The Grizzlies will play the Golden State Warriors on Tuesday at 9:30 p.m. CT (NBA TV). 

Topics

Las Vegas Summer League Memphis Grizzlies
Drew Hill

Drew Hill

Drew Hill covers the Memphis Grizzlies and is a top-10 APSE winner. He has worked throughout the South writing about college athletics before landing in Memphis.


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