Ty Jerome Scores Career-High 45 Points in Grizzlies Season Opener

Ty Jerome delivered a historic performance on Wednesday night, scoring a career-high 45 points to lead the Memphis Grizzlies to a comfortable 123-103 victory over the Utah Jazz at FedExForum. Opening their 2026-27 NBA campaign, the Grizzlies capitalized on Jerome's offensive brilliance to secure a dominant start to the new season.

Stepping into the starting point guard role following Ja Morant's offseason trade to the Portland Trail Blazers, Jerome wasted no time making an impact. He shot 17-of-25 from the field, including 5-of-10 from three-point range, while adding seven rebounds and six assists. His previous career high was 33 points, which he scored for the Cleveland Cavaliers against Philadelphia in January 2025.

Jerome's stellar night established a new Memphis franchise record for the most points scored by a player in a season opener, eclipsing the previous mark of 44 set by Morant against the San Antonio Spurs in 2020. Furthermore, Jerome became the first player in Grizzlies history to record at least 45 points, five rebounds, and five assists while shooting better than 65 percent from the field. He reached the 40-point milestone with a deep three-pointer from near the logo before exiting the game in the final minute to a standing ovation.

The Grizzlies carried a 64-51 advantage into halftime after Jerome scored 19 points in the opening two quarters. Memphis then blew the game open at the start of the third quarter, putting together an 18-4 run to stretch their lead to 82-55. The team's advantage grew to as many as 27 points, ensuring the Jazz would trail by at least 15 points throughout the entirety of the fourth quarter.

Several newcomers and returning players also contributed to the opening-night victory. Jerami Grant, acquired from Portland in the trade that sent Morant away, chipped in 15 points. Jaylen Wells and GG Jackson each added 12 points, while center Zach Edey grabbed nine rebounds as Memphis outrebounded Utah 55-38 and imposed its physical presence inside.

On the other side, rookie Cameron Boozer finished with seven points, 11 rebounds, and five assists for Memphis, though he struggled offensively by making just 2 of 15 shot attempts. Keyonte George led the Utah Jazz with 22 points, and Lauri Markkanen contributed 18 points and nine rebounds. Former Grizzlies star Jaren Jackson Jr., playing his first game back at FedExForum since being traded to Utah last February, scored 15 points before fouling out in the final period.

The win provides a strong momentum boost for Memphis under head coach Tuomas Iisalo as the team adjusts to its new rotation and offensive identity. The Grizzlies will look to build on their opening success when they travel to face the Golden State Warriors on Friday.