Grizzlies Triumph in Salt Lake City Summer League: Wells and Jackson Shine

In a thrilling matchup at the 2025 Salt Lake City Summer League, the Memphis Grizzlies secured a decisive 92-80 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder on Saturday, July 5, 2025, at the Jon M. Huntsman Center. Key contributions came from Jaylen Wells and GG Jackson, both of whom scored 20 points, demonstrating their potential as rising stars for the Grizzlies.

The game commenced with the Thunder's Ajay Mitchell setting a vigorous pace, finishing the first half with 16 points on an impressive 60% shooting (6-for-10). However, Wells quickly matched the momentum for Memphis, netting 12 points before halftime, which allowed the Grizzlies to stay competitive. Mitchell ended the game with a game-high 24 points, underscoring his role in Oklahoma City's early advantage.

Despite the Thunder's strong start, the second half saw a remarkable turnaround led by GG Jackson, who amplified his performance to secure the win for the Grizzlies. Alongside Jackson's efforts, Cam Spencer contributed significantly with 14 points, five rebounds, and five assists. Additionally, Javon Small played a pivotal playmaking role, tallying six assists, which matched the efforts of Mitchell from the Thunder.

On the Thunder’s side, Nikola Topic added 14 points, while Brooks Barnhizer was notable for his defensive presence, recording a game-high 13 rebounds, along with nine points.

The victory not only highlighted the Grizzlies' offensive capabilities but also reinforced their strategic depth, which may be crucial as they look ahead to the upcoming NBA season. Both teams are scheduled to continue their summer league campaigns, with the Thunder facing the Philadelphia 76ers and the Grizzlies set to challenge the Utah Jazz on Monday, July 7, 2025.

As the summer league progresses, all eyes will be on the performances of emerging talents like Wells and Jackson, who have shown significant promise in their early careers. The annual showcase, featuring all 30 NBA teams, runs from July 10-20, with every game broadcast live on ESPN or NBA TV, offering fans a glimpse into the future of basketball talent.

With the NBA set to expand its reach in the coming years, the performances during these summer league games will be critical for players vying for roster spots and contracts. The 2025 Salt Lake City Summer League not only serves as a platform for young talents to shine but also plays a pivotal role in shaping the future landscape of the league. As teams look to bolster their lineups for the upcoming season, the insights gained from these early matchups will undoubtedly influence strategic decisions and player development initiatives moving forward.