Memphis Grizzlies head coach Tuomas Iisalo analyzed his team’s 139-136 overtime loss to the Philadelphia 76ers, focusing on rotation decisions and late-game execution.
“In the middle of the fourth quarter…both guys went through the recommendations heavily today because we felt like this was a very important game,” Iisalo said of Ja Morant and Cedric Coward’s brief rest before returning to the floor.
Iisalo explained the rationale behind the sub: “We felt like both players took advantage of that little break. We as a team weren’t sure if we took advantage of that at the time, but it also led to two guys being relatively fresh going into the last few minutes.”
When asked about Memphis’ final possession, Iisalo noted, “We felt like we had five shooters on the court and a very good passer in Santi Aldama to pass the inbound ball and thought that would give us the best chance to win the game.”
Of Philadelphia’s game-winning 3-pointer, he said, “We had to give up a foul during the timeout…we were also very aware that they have some players who are very good and that if you foul at the wrong spot…you get a free throw right there.”
Iisalo acknowledged the challenge of balancing minutes and effort. “There’s always an element of planning and always an element of feeling…you don’t want to empty the bank account just because you feel like we have to do everything we can to win the game,” he explained.
The Grizzlies were led by Morant, who scored 40 points, including 18 in the fourth quarter, keeping Memphis within striking distance and forcing overtime after a 128-128 tie with less than a minute remaining. Cedric Coward added career-highs of 28 points and 16 rebounds.
Philadelphia’s VJ Edgecombe scored 25 points, including a game-winning 3-pointer with 1.7 seconds left, while Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey combined for 68 points. The 76ers defeated Memphis 11-8 in overtime to snap a three-game losing streak.
Both teams shot over 50% in the first half, with the score tied at 72 at halftime, but Memphis struggled with 11 turnovers. Philadelphia’s balanced scoring, clutch shooting and experienced leadership from Paul George proved decisive.
The overtime loss drops Memphis to 15-18, while Philadelphia improves to 17-14. The 76ers continue their five-game road trip against the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday and the Grizzlies visit the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday.
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