Assessing the Role of Veteran Forward Kevin Love’s Third Quarter Scoring Surge in the Jazz vs Grizzlies Momentum Shift
The Utah Jazz secured a dramatic 130-126 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies at the FedExForum on Friday, December 12, 2025, snapping a two game losing streak and overcoming a strong return performance by Grizzlies star Ja Morant. The high scoring Western Conference showdown, which yielded some of the best photographs of the night, was ultimately decided in the final minute by a career defining effort from the Jazz’s young backcourt star.
The immediate takeaway from the Jazz vs Grizzlies game was the incredible offensive duel and the final moments of clutch basketball. Jazz guard Keyonte George erupted for a career high 39 points along with 8 assists and 6 rebounds, scoring the final six points for Utah to secure the victory. The score was tied at 126 with less than a minute remaining when George hit a decisive 22-foot jump shot, followed by two critical free throws with 6.8 seconds left. The victory spoiled the return of Grizzlies point guard Ja Morant, who played his first game in 10 outings after recovering from a right calf sprain, contributing 21 points and 10 assists.
The strategic battle between the Jazz vs Grizzlies saw the momentum shift back and forth across all four quarters. The Grizzlies, propelled by Ja Morant and a perfect 6-for-6 night from three point range by Cam Spencer (20 points), built a 12 point lead in the third quarter. However, the Jazz countered with a massive 42 point third quarter, highlighted by 13 points and three consecutive three pointers from veteran forward Kevin Love (20 points overall), to take a six point lead into the final frame. The Jazz's ability to maintain high scoring efficiency (46% from the field, 36% from three point range) and win the rebounding battle (58-49) were key factors in overcoming the Grizzlies' hot shooting.
Looking ahead, the future outlook for the Jazz vs Grizzlies matchup sees the Jazz (10-15) gaining a much needed win and confidence boost heading into a Monday night home game against Dallas. Keyonte George’s performance validates the organization's faith in him as a foundational piece. For the Grizzlies (11-14), the loss is disappointing, particularly with Morant back in the lineup, and highlights the ongoing challenge of closing out games. They will look to integrate Morant back into the rhythm of the game when they travel to face the Los Angeles Clippers on Monday.