Key Takeaways:
- Santi Aldama scored 22 points as Memphis defeated Portland 119-96 on Sunday night
- Memphis led by as many as 25 points in the first half, capitalising on 14 Portland turnovers and 35% shooting
- Jerami Grant led the Trail Blazers with 21 points, while Deni Avdija’s run of five consecutive 25-point, five-rebound, five-assist games ended
First-Half Dominance Sets Tone for Grizzlies
The Memphis Grizzlies surged to a 119-96 win over the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday night, building a commanding lead in the opening half. Santi Aldama spearheaded the hosts with 22 points, while both Jaylen Wells and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope contributed 17 apiece. Jock Landale added 15 as Memphis secured their seventh victory in nine games.
Back2️⃣Back Home Dubs 😤
House party continues on 12/12 🎟️ https://t.co/ORo7W4tPqD pic.twitter.com/gJSzhblauS
— Memphis Grizzlies (@memgrizz) December 8, 2025
Benefiting from Portland’s difficulties, the Grizzlies seized a 25-point advantage early on. The Trail Blazers struggled with their shooting, finishing the half at 35% from the field, and committed 14 turnovers, both of which allowed Memphis to carry a 66-46 lead into the interval. The 46 first-half points equalled Portland’s lowest output for any half this season.
Trail Blazers Hampered by Injury and Illness
Portland entered the contest shorthanded, missing both top centres. Donovan Clingan was absent for a second consecutive game due to a left lower calf contusion, and Robert Williams III was ruled out late with illness. As a result, rookie Yang Hansen – selected 16th overall last summer – started his first game of the season. The 7-foot-2 centre from China recorded four points and five rebounds in his debut start.
Jerami Grant led the visitors with 21 points. Deni Avdija and Shaedon Sharpe each scored 17, with Avdija also providing seven rebounds and seven assists. However, Avdija’s streak of five consecutive games with at least 25 points, five rebounds, and five assists was snapped.
Momentum Swings and Final Outcome
Despite trailing heavily, Portland opened the second half with a determined 19-3 run, closing the gap to just four points at 69-65. Memphis responded immediately and restored control, establishing a 92-78 margin heading into the fourth quarter and ultimately cruising to a comprehensive win.
| Top Scorers | Team | Points |
|---|---|---|
| Santi Aldama | Grizzlies | 22 |
| Jaylen Wells | Grizzlies | 17 |
| Kentavious Caldwell-Pope | Grizzlies | 17 |
| Jock Landale | Grizzlies | 15 |
| Jerami Grant | Trail Blazers | 21 |
| Deni Avdija | Trail Blazers | 17 |
| Shaedon Sharpe | Trail Blazers | 17 |
Upcoming Fixtures
The Trail Blazers will conclude their five-game road trip against New Orleans on Thursday night. The Memphis Grizzlies are set to host Utah on Friday night.
