The Memphis Grizzlies opened their 2026-27 NBA campaign with a comfortable 123-103 win over the Utah Jazz on Wednesday at FedExForum, thanks to a historic performance from Ty Jerome. The 29-year-old led the way with a career-high 45 points, setting a franchise record for the most points scored by a Memphis player in a season opener.

Starting at point guard following Ja Morant's offseason trade to the Portland Trail Blazers, Jerome stepped into the spotlight and brought a newfound dimension to the team's attack. He shot 17-of-25 from the field and 5-of-10 from three-point range while adding seven rebounds and six assists. His previous career high was 33 points for the Cleveland Cavaliers against Philadelphia in January 2025.

Jerome scored the Grizzlies' first two baskets and produced 13 points in the opening quarter. He reached halftime with 19 points as Memphis took a 64-51 lead. His total eventually surpassed Morant's previous season-opening franchise record of 44 points, set versus the San Antonio Spurs in 2020. Moreover, Jerome also became the first player in Grizzlies history to record at least 45 points, five rebounds and five assists while shooting better than 65% from the field. He reached the 40-point mark with a three-pointer from near the logo before receiving a standing ovation as he left the game in the final minute.

Memphis widened the gap after halftime, beginning the third quarter with an 18-4 run to take an 82-55 lead. The Grizzlies pushed their advantage to 27 points three times during the period and entered the fourth quarter ahead 98-79.

Jerami Grant, acquired from the Blazers in the Morant trade, contributed 15 points, including 13 in the second quarter. Jaylen Wells and GG Jackson added 12 points apiece. Zach Edey collected nine rebounds, while Memphis outrebounded Utah 55-38.

Rookie Cameron Boozer finished with seven points, 11 rebounds and five assists but had a frigid night offensively, making just 2-of-15 attempts, including 0-of-6 from three-point range.

Article Continues Below

Keyonte George paced the Jazz with 22 points, while Lauri Markkanen finished with 18 points and nine rebounds. Former Grizzlies star Jaren Jackson Jr. scored 15 points before fouling out in the fourth quarter. Jaxson Hayes tallied a career-high six blocks for Utah, which played without injured center Jusuf Nurkic.

Memphis will next visit the Golden State Warriors on Friday.