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The Grizzlies vs Nuggets matchup ended with a strong Denver win, as the Nuggets defeated the Memphis Grizzlies 122–116 in an entertaining NBA contest. This game had everything fans want: high scoring, quarter-by-quarter swings, and a fourth-quarter comeback attempt that kept the result uncertain until the final moments. Denver came into the night with the better record and played like a more polished team for most of the game. Memphis, however, showed fight and energy late, especially in the fourth quarter. In this full breakdown, we cover the final score, scoring table, key highlights, and the most important moments that shaped the outcome of the Grizzlies vs Nuggets game.
Quick Score Table
| Team | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 | Final |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Denver Nuggets | 30 | 30 | 33 | 29 | 122 |
| Memphis Grizzlies | 28 | 26 | 27 | 35 | 116 |
The quarter-by-quarter scoring tells the full story of the Grizzlies vs Nuggets game. Denver won the first three quarters and built a lead by being steady and efficient, while Memphis saved its best scoring burst for the final period. The Nuggets never had a single huge explosion, but they stayed near 30 points every quarter, which is extremely difficult to beat. Memphis’ 35-point fourth quarter made the final score closer than the game looked earlier, but the Grizzlies were forced to play catch-up because Denver controlled the middle of the game. This table also shows the pace stayed high, with both teams scoring consistently in every quarter.
Quick Match Stats Table
| Match Detail | Denver Nuggets | Memphis Grizzlies |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 122 | 116 |
| Record Shown | 35–20 | 20–33 |
| Best Quarter | Q3 33 pts | Q4 35 pts |
| Key Advantage | Consistency | Late momentum |
| Game Type | NBA | NBA |
This quick table highlights the most important details from the Grizzlies vs Nuggets matchup. Denver’s record advantage was visible in how they handled the key moments, especially in the second and third quarters. Memphis’ record may be weaker, but the Grizzlies proved they can still compete in bursts and score at a high level when they find rhythm. Denver’s biggest edge was stability, because they scored 30, 30, and 33 across the first three quarters. Memphis’ biggest positive was the late push, which shows they still have fight and offensive upside. Overall, the match stats show Denver won the game through structure, while Memphis relied on urgency.
Full Game Summary and Key Storyline
The main storyline of Grizzlies vs Nuggets was the battle between Memphis’ speed and Denver’s composure. The Grizzlies tried to turn the game into a track meet, pushing pace, attacking early, and looking for quick scoring chances. Denver responded with a calmer style, slowing the game down when needed and making sure most possessions ended with a good shot. The Nuggets didn’t look rushed even when Memphis increased pressure. Over the first three quarters, Denver’s ability to stay consistent and avoid long scoring droughts gave them control. Memphis’ late scoring surge was impressive, but the Grizzlies had already fallen behind in the middle of the game, and that made the comeback extremely difficult.
First Quarter Breakdown

The opening quarter of Grizzlies vs Nuggets was close and competitive, with Denver edging Memphis 30–28. Both teams came out ready to score, and it was clear early that the pace would be fast. Memphis did a good job matching Denver’s early baskets and kept the Nuggets from building an immediate lead. Denver’s offense looked smooth, with clean ball movement and steady scoring. Memphis relied more on quick attacks and aggressive energy, which helped them stay in the game. The first quarter was important because it showed the Grizzlies could compete early and weren’t overwhelmed by Denver’s record or experience. Still, Denver finished the quarter with a slight edge, which set the tone for the next two periods.
Second Quarter Breakdown
The second quarter was where Denver started to separate, winning the period 30–26. In the Grizzlies vs Nuggets matchup, this was the first stretch where the Nuggets’ discipline became a real advantage. Memphis didn’t collapse, but their offense slowed slightly, and Denver took advantage by continuing to score efficiently. The Nuggets stacked solid possessions and avoided unnecessary mistakes, which is how strong teams build leads without needing flashy runs. Memphis continued to fight, but they had to work harder for points while Denver seemed to get quality shots more naturally. By halftime, Denver had built a small but meaningful lead. The second quarter mattered because it forced Memphis into catch-up mode and shifted the pressure onto the Grizzlies.
Third Quarter Breakdown
The third quarter was the turning point in Grizzlies vs Nuggets, and Denver won it 33–27. This is where the Nuggets looked like the better team in terms of execution and adjustments. Denver came out of halftime sharp, scoring quickly and keeping Memphis from building momentum. Memphis still scored 27 points, which is not bad, but Denver’s 33 created separation that changed the game. When Denver scores in the low 30s, it usually means they are generating high-quality looks and forcing defensive breakdowns. Memphis couldn’t keep pace, and that six-point gap in the third quarter pushed the overall margin to a level that made a comeback difficult.
Fourth Quarter Breakdown
The fourth quarter of Grizzlies vs Nuggets belonged to Memphis, as the Grizzlies outscored Denver 35–29. This was the stretch where Memphis played with maximum urgency and looked like a team determined not to go quietly. The Grizzlies pushed tempo, attacked aggressively, and found scoring rhythm that had been missing earlier. Denver didn’t collapse, but they did get outscored, which is why the final score ended up being close. Still, the Nuggets did what experienced teams do: they kept scoring enough to protect the lead. Denver’s 29 points in the fourth was still solid, and it prevented Memphis from completing the comeback. The fourth quarter was exciting because it showed Memphis’ fight and made the ending feel tense.
Why Denver Won the Grizzlies vs Nuggets Game
Denver won the Grizzlies vs Nuggets matchup because they were more consistent across the first three quarters. They didn’t need a single huge run or a dominant fourth quarter. Instead, the Nuggets won through steady scoring and winning the middle of the game. Denver scored 30, 30, and 33 in the first three quarters, which gave them a strong foundation. Memphis simply could not match that pace early enough. Even though the Grizzlies had a great fourth quarter, the comeback came too late. Denver also avoided panic when Memphis made the score close. They stayed disciplined, kept the offense flowing, and did just enough to hold the lead.
What Memphis Did Right in Grizzlies vs Nuggets
Even in a loss, Memphis had positives in the Grizzlies vs Nuggets game. The biggest was the fourth quarter, where they scored 35 points and made Denver work for the win. That kind of scoring burst shows Memphis still has offensive potential and can be dangerous when they find rhythm. Memphis also stayed competitive early, only trailing by two after the first quarter. The Grizzlies did not allow the game to turn into a blowout, which matters for confidence and development. Their late-game energy also showed strong team culture, because it’s easy for a struggling team to quit when down. Instead, Memphis fought back and made the final score respectable.
Biggest Turning Point of Grizzlies vs Nuggets
The turning point of Grizzlies vs Nuggets was the third quarter. Denver’s 33–27 advantage in that period was the difference between a close finish and a Memphis comeback win. If Memphis had kept the third quarter closer, their 35-point fourth quarter might have been enough to take the lead. Instead, Denver used the third quarter to create a cushion and force Memphis into chase mode. Once a team is chasing, they often take quicker shots and become more vulnerable to mistakes. Denver’s ability to control the third quarter was a sign of their experience. Memphis’ late push was impressive, but it was built on desperation rather than steady control. The third quarter is where Denver won the game.
Match Flow Summary in One View

If you want to describe Grizzlies vs Nuggets in the simplest way, it’s this: Denver controlled the first three quarters, Memphis won the fourth, but the Nuggets had built enough of a lead to survive. That is exactly what the scoring table shows. Denver’s consistency was the foundation of the win, and Memphis’ late scoring was the reason the final margin ended up being only six points. This match flow also shows the value of winning the middle quarters. Even if you lose the fourth, you can still win the game if you have already built a cushion.
What This Win Means for the Nuggets
For Denver, the Grizzlies vs Nuggets result reinforces why they are considered a serious team. Winning 122–116 shows they can win high-scoring games and maintain structure even when the opponent makes a late push. The Nuggets’ offense was consistent, scoring at least 29 points in every quarter. That level of balance is hard to beat. The only concern would be giving up 35 points in the fourth, but Denver still scored 29 themselves, which shows they didn’t completely break down. This win also strengthens Denver’s record and keeps them moving in the right direction as the season progresses. Denver played like a team that expects to win, and that’s the biggest takeaway from this matchup.
What This Loss Means for the Grizzlies
For Memphis, the Grizzlies vs Nuggets game was another tough loss, but not one without hope. Scoring 116 points against a strong Denver team shows the offense can still reach a high level. The Grizzlies also proved they can make games competitive late, which is important for building belief. However, the loss also highlights the biggest issue: consistency. Memphis lost the second and third quarters, and that is where the game slipped away. Against top teams, you cannot lose back-to-back quarters and expect to win. Memphis needs to bring fourth-quarter intensity earlier in games. If they can do that, they will start converting these competitive performances into actual wins.
Conclusion
The Grizzlies vs Nuggets matchup finished with Denver winning 122–116, and the quarter-by-quarter breakdown makes the story clear. Denver won the first three quarters, especially the third, where they scored 33 points and built the lead that decided the game. Memphis made a strong fourth-quarter push with 35 points, but the comeback came too late. The Nuggets showed composure and consistency, while the Grizzlies showed fight and late-game scoring ability. This game was entertaining, fast-paced, and full of momentum swings, making it one of the better high-scoring matchups. Stay connected with droppost.co.uk for more NBA match breakdowns, score updates, and full game analysis.
FAQs
What was the final score of Grizzlies vs Nuggets
The Denver Nuggets won 122–116 over the Memphis Grizzlies.
Which quarter decided Grizzlies vs Nuggets
The third quarter, where Denver outscored Memphis 33–27.
Who won the fourth quarter in Grizzlies vs Nuggets
Memphis won the fourth quarter 35–29.
Was Grizzlies vs Nuggets a close game
Yes, Memphis made it close late, but Denver stayed ahead.
How did Denver win Grizzlies vs Nuggets
Denver controlled the second and third quarters with consistent scoring.
What was Memphis’ best quarter
The fourth quarter, where they scored 35 points.
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