The Memphis Grizzlies and Golden State Warriors took Game 1 of their matchup down to the wire. In one of the best games of the 2022 NBA playoffs, Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. were brilliant but the Grizzlies couldn't hang on and lost by a score of 117-116.

The Grizzlies and Warriors traded blows down the stretch. After Klay Thompson made a triple that put the Warriors up by a point with 36 seconds left, he left the door open by missing two clutch free throws. The Grizzlies drew up a play to get Morant going downhill but couldn't capitalize.

Jackson struggled to find the words after the Grizzlies' brutal loss.

Article Continues Below
More Memphis Grizzlies News
Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) warms up before a game against the San Antonio Spurs at Frost Bank Center
Grizzlies’ Ja Morant creates buzz with move before NBA free agencyAlex House ·
Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) waits for play to resume in front of his father, Tee Morant during the second half against the Brooklyn Nets at FedExForum.
Grizzlies’ Ja Morant, family announce launch of new companyTomer Azarly ·
Cedric Coward arrives before the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft at Barclays Center.
Grizzlies, Blazers trade grades for 2025 NBA Draft dealRishav Bhat ·
Featured image Javon Small
Emotional reaction of Javon Small’s grandpa to Grizzlies pick goes viralDylan Fine ·
Giannis Antetokounmpo (Bucks), Cedric Coward (Grizzlies), 2025 NBA Draft logo
Why Grizzlies see Giannis Antetokounmpo potential in Cedric CowardChris Dodson ·
Memphis Grizzlies guard Desmond Bane (22) shoots the ball in the first half against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
Grizzlies GM admits Desmond Bane trade is ‘great’ for MagicAbdullah Imran ·

Morant, who recorded game-highs of 34 points and 10 assists, and Jackson, who scored 33 points on 10-18 shooting and collected a game-high 10 rebounds, achieved a rare playoff feat in the loss. The Grizzlies held their own but couldn't take advantage of  Draymond Green's second-quarter ejection.

Memphis taking a loss at home is not the right way to start their series against the Warriors. However, they should not hang their heads too hard over this one. They played very well against a team with a lot more experience in the NBA playoffs. It was a clear message that they belong in postseason basketball.

The Grizzlies and Warriors will face off in Game 2 on Tuesday. If Morant and Jackson come to play again, Memphis should be able to even up the series before it heads to the Bay Area.