Shocking Memphis Grizzlies Suffer First Loss in Overtime

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Memphis Grizzlies fans witnessed a dramatic first setback of the season Monday night as the New Orleans Pelicans escaped with a 135-134 overtime victory. The one-point thriller was decided in the final seconds, with Jeremiah Fears converting two free throws with 7.3 seconds remaining.

The loss ended Memphis’ unbeaten start and handed the Grizzlies their first defeat of the campaign. New Orleans improved its position in the early-season race after surviving a frantic finish that featured a major overtime performance from Zion Williamson.

Memphis Grizzlies Fall in a Stunning Overtime Finish

Both teams traded momentum throughout the contest, but the game became especially tense once regulation ended. With the score still undecided, the Pelicans relied on Williamson’s strength and aggression to create separation during the extra period.

Williamson finished with 25 points, including nine in overtime. His late scoring burst provided New Orleans with an important spark when every possession carried significant weight. The Pelicans needed nearly every one of those points as Memphis continued to challenge them until the final whistle.

Fears then delivered the decisive moment. His two successful free throws with 7.3 seconds left gave New Orleans the narrow advantage it needed. Memphis had an opportunity to respond, but the Pelicans held on for the 135-134 result.

Williamson’s Overtime Surge Powers New Orleans

Williamson’s nine overtime points stood out as the defining individual contribution of the night. The forward attacked the extra period with confidence, helping New Orleans maintain pressure against a Memphis team that had not yet lost this season.

His performance also reflected the type of high-impact production the Pelicans need in close games. A 25-point outing is impressive on its own, but the timing of his scoring made the difference. Williamson produced when the contest was at its most competitive and helped keep New Orleans in control of the late stages.

• Zion Williamson scored 25 points.
• Williamson recorded nine points in overtime.
• Jeremiah Fears made two free throws with 7.3 seconds remaining.
• New Orleans defeated Memphis 135-134.
• The result marked the Grizzlies’ first loss of the season.

What the Loss Means for Memphis

The defeat does not erase the strong opening stretch Memphis had built, but it does change the tone around the team. The Grizzlies now face their first opportunity to respond after falling in one of the narrowest possible ways.

Late-game execution will be an obvious focus. Memphis remained close enough to win, yet the final possession sequence ultimately favored New Orleans. In a season where playoff positioning can be shaped by a handful of close contests, those moments become increasingly important.

The Grizzlies can also take encouragement from the fact that they pushed a talented opponent to the limit on the road. Losing by one point in overtime indicates that Memphis was competitive throughout the game. However, the team will likely want to improve its decision-making, defensive discipline and execution during the closing possessions of tight games.

A Critical Early Test for the Grizzlies

Early-season records can change quickly, especially after an overtime game decided by a single point. Memphis’ first loss gives the team a clear test: respond with composure rather than allowing one difficult finish to affect its confidence.

The Grizzlies will also have to evaluate how they handled Williamson’s overtime attack. Once the Pelicans’ star found his rhythm, New Orleans gained the offensive edge it needed. Limiting late scoring runs and forcing tougher attempts could be essential for Memphis in future matchups against physical frontcourt players.

For New Orleans, the victory carries immediate value. The Pelicans showed poise in a high-pressure environment and found a way to win even as Memphis continued to threaten. Fears’ late free throws were especially important because they came during the game’s most decisive moment.

Pelicans Gain Momentum After Dramatic Win

The 135-134 final score captured the intensity of the matchup. New Orleans did not simply cruise to victory; the Pelicans had to survive an extended battle against an undefeated opponent. That experience could prove valuable as the season develops.

Williamson’s production and Fears’ composure gave the Pelicans a powerful combination in the closing minutes. One player supplied the scoring burst, while the other handled the pressure at the foul line. Together, they helped New Orleans secure a memorable win.

As reported in ESPN’s game coverage, the Pelicans handed Memphis its first loss of the season in overtime. The Grizzlies will now look to reset, while New Orleans can build on a victory that demonstrated resilience, late-game focus and the ability to finish a close NBA contest.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the final score of the Memphis Grizzlies game?

The New Orleans Pelicans defeated the Memphis Grizzlies 135-134 in overtime on Monday night, Nov. 2, 2026.

Who led the Pelicans in scoring?

Zion Williamson led New Orleans with 25 points, including nine points during overtime.

How did Jeremiah Fears decide the game?

Jeremiah Fears made two free throws with 7.3 seconds remaining, giving the Pelicans the late advantage they needed to win.

Was this the Grizzlies’ first loss of the season?

Yes. The overtime defeat was Memphis’ first loss of the season after its unbeaten start.