Memphis Grizzlies Defeat Utah Jazz 123-103 in Season Opener

Ty Jerome delivered a remarkable performance on Wednesday evening, scoring a career-high 45 points to power the Memphis Grizzlies to a 123-103 victory over the Utah Jazz during the season opener for both teams in Memphis, Tennessee.

Jerome shot 17 of 25 from the field, including 5 of 10 from 3-point range. His 45-point output established a new franchise record for the most points scored by a Memphis player in a season opener, surpassing the previous mark of 44 points set by Ja Morant in 2020.

The matchup featured notable appearances from members of the current rookie class. The Utah Jazz selected Darryn Peterson out of Kansas with the second overall pick, while the Memphis Grizzlies chose Cam Boozer from Duke shortly after. Peterson contributed nine points for Utah, whereas Boozer recorded 11 rebounds, seven points, and five assists while shooting 2 of 15 from the field and 0 for 6 on 3-point attempts.

Jerami Grant, who arrived in Memphis via an offseason trade with Portland that sent Morant to the Trail Blazers, added 15 points for the victors. Jaylen Wells and GG Jackson chipped in 12 points apiece. For the Jazz, Keyonte George led the scoring effort with 22 points, and Lauri Markkanen contributed 18 points.

The game also marked the return of Jaren Jackson Jr. to the FedExForum court after spending eight seasons with the Grizzlies. Jackson, who was traded to Utah at the trade deadline last February, scored 15 points before fouling out in the fourth quarter. Additionally, Jaxson Hayes recorded six blocks for Utah, marking a career high.

Memphis established control early, building a lead of up to 15 points in the first half and heading into halftime ahead 64-51. The Grizzlies then opened the third quarter with an 18-4 run to extend their advantage to 82-55. Throughout the final period, Memphis maintained a commanding lead that reached as high as 27 points, keeping the Jazz at a distance of at least 15 points until the final buzzer.