In a thrilling finish to the NBA Play-In Tournament, the Memphis Grizzlies emerged victorious over the Dallas Mavericks with a final score of 120-106, securing their spot in the playoffs. This win not only marked a crucial playoff berth for the Grizzlies but also set the stage for an exciting first-round matchup against the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder, which is set to begin on Sunday at the Thunder's home court.

Star point guard Ja Morant, who had been nursing a sprained right ankle sustained during a previous game against the Golden State Warriors, made an impressive return to the court. Despite concerns regarding his availability, Morant managed to score 22 points and contribute nine assists, demonstrating his determination to lead his team to victory. The doctors gave me all the help I needed in the simplest terms, Morant stated, reflecting on the uncertainty surrounding his playing status up until just 30 minutes before the tip-off. I wanted to be on the floor. I wanted to play this game and get the win, he emphasized.

In addition to Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr. showcased his skills, leading the team with 24 points, while Desmond Bane also contributed significantly with 22 points. On the other end of the court, Anthony Davis was the standout for Dallas, delivering an impressive performance with 40 points and nine rebounds. However, his game took a concerning turn when he limped off in the fourth quarter due to what appeared to be a right calf injury. Although he returned briefly, he was unable to finish the game, sitting in the locker room afterward with his leg wrapped and iced. Davis acknowledged the gravity of the situation, stating, We had our chances. Obviously, a tough loss.

The Grizzlies initially dominated the game, building a 25-point lead in the first half. However, the Mavericks mounted a fierce comeback, executing a 27-12 run that brought them within single digits midway through the third quarter. Nevertheless, Memphis regained control, closing the third quarter with a 96-80 lead, and they maintained their advantage without facing a serious threat from Dallas for the remainder of the game.

Dallas, which had recently secured a spot against Memphis by defeating Sacramento 120-106, started the game flat and was unable to find their rhythm. The team has had a rocky end to the season, finishing with a disappointing 7-15 record since March 1. Furthermore, they faced additional challenges with the loss of Kyrie Irving, who underwent left knee surgery after a high-profile trade that saw Luka Doncic leave the Mavericks to join the Los Angeles Lakers. An incredible season, but the change (trading Doncic for AD) and injuries, some would say we shouldnt even be there, remarked Mavericks coach Jason Kidd as he reflected on the season.

Meanwhile, in another Play-In Tournament game, the Miami Heat pulled off a dramatic overtime victory against the Atlanta Hawks, with Tyler Herro leading the way by scoring 30 points. Backup guard Davion Mitchell, who struggled throughout the first half, found his footing just in time, contributing significantly during overtime to help secure the win. Despite missing all four of his shots in the first half and only scoring seven points by the end of regulation, Mitchells resurgence in overtimewhere he made three of his four shots, all three-pointerswas pivotal for Miami. For him to struggle like that in the first half and have that kind of fourth quarter and overtime really speaks to his character, said Miami coach Erik Spoelstra, praising Mitchell's resilience.

Mitchell attributed his success to the unwavering support from his teammates and coach, allowing him to regain his confidence as the game progressed. I feel I was forcing it in the first half, trying to do too much, he admitted, reflecting on his initial struggles. I just kind of re-set in my mind and let the game come to me. I just believe in the work Ive put in. This marks a significant moment for the Heat, as they became the first No. 10 seed in either conference to advance to the playoffs under the current play-in format, which was introduced during the 2020-21 season.

As the playoffs approach, both Memphis and Miami are preparing to face formidable opponents, with Memphis looking to overcome their past defeats against Oklahoma City in the regular season and Miami gearing up for a tough series against the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers.