Ty Jerome was relatively quiet in the first half of the Memphis Grizzlies’ preseason finale against the Charlotte Hornets on Oct. 16 at FedExForum.
That changed in the final minute of the second quarter.
Jerome pulled up in transition and buried a 31-foot 3-pointer with 29.2 seconds remaining, then knocked down another 3-pointer in the final second of the half.
The back-to-back baskets helped Memphis build a 12-point halftime lead, and the Grizzlies maintained control the rest of the way in a 117-98 preseason victory over Charlotte.
The Grizzlies finished the preseason with a 3-1 record. They’ll open the regular season Oct. 21 against the Utah Jazz (7 p.m. CT, DAZN-MEM).
Turnovers fuel Grizzlies’ defense
Memphis held Charlotte to 38 points in the first half, in part by forcing 19
turnovers. The Grizzlies have emphasized building a team that can create turnovers and capitalize on those opportunities in transition. They did both effectively against the Hornets.
Memphis struggled to find its shooting rhythm early, much like Charlotte. But the Grizzlies’ defensive pressure kept them in the game until the offense found its footing and created separation on the scoreboard.
The ability to turn defensive stops into transition opportunities remains an important part of the Grizzlies’ identity as they prepare for the regular season.
Ty Jerome, Cam Boozer continue to shine
Jerome and Cam Boozer continue to make strong cases as two of the Grizzlies’ top offensive options.
Jerome’s shooting and playmaking helped Memphis control the game. He finished with a team-high plus-26 in 22 minutes, recording 17 points, four assists and three steals.
Boozer struggled with his shooting efficiency, making just 4 of 13 field-goal attempts. However, he consistently got to the free-throw line, converting 9 of 10 attempts to finish with a game-high 19 points. He also grabbed seven rebounds.
Memphis played Boozer into the fourth quarter, giving him 29 minutes in the preseason finale. The extended workload offered another indication of the role the Grizzlies envision for the rookie, who appears poised to be one of the team’s leaders in playing time.
Kris Murray makes his case
This was Kris Murray’s last opportunity to make an impression before the Grizzlies finalize their roster. He started in place of wing Jaylen Wells, who came off the bench.
Murray didn’t make much of an impact offensively, finishing scoreless without attempting a shot in 17 minutes. His value, however, comes primarily on the defensive end.
He recorded a block and a steal while taking on point-of-attack defensive responsibilities, showcasing the skills that could help him earn a roster spot.
Damichael Cole is the Memphis Grizzlies beat writer for The Commercial Appeal. Contact Damichael at damichael.cole@commercialappeal.com. Follow Damichael on X, formerly known as Twitter, @DamichaelC.
This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Ty Jerome, Cam Boozer show Memphis Grizzlies their offensive potential
