The Memphis Grizzlies used a blistering first quarter to build a commanding 49-37 halftime lead over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday night at FedExForum.
Memphis came out with immense energy, seizing immediate control with a 36-point opening period. Their offensive execution was sharp, and their defense stifled the Cavaliers’ attack, holding them to just 24 points. The second quarter was a different story, however, as both teams struggled to find an offensive rhythm. The defenses locked in, resulting in a low-scoring, deadlocked 13-13 quarter that allowed Memphis to maintain their comfortable 12-point advantage heading into the locker room.
Rookie Cedric Coward led all scorers with 12 first-half points for the Grizzlies, adding three rebounds and two assists. His efficient scoring was pivotal in the early surge. Facilitator Cam Spencer dished out a game-high five assists to keep the offense flowing. For the shorthanded Cavaliers, Craig Porter provided a spark off the bench with a team-leading nine points, while Evan Mobley added eight. Cleveland will need to solve Memphis’s defensive pressure and generate more consistent offense to mount a second-half comeback.
