The New Orleans Pelicans handed the Memphis Grizzlies their first loss of the 2026–27 season, edging them 135–134 in overtime. Zion Williamson delivered 25 points, while Jeremiah Fears hit the decisive free throws with 7.3 seconds remaining.
New Orleans produced a late-game finish in Memphis on Monday night, November 2, ending the Grizzlies’ six-game winning streak to open the season. Ty Jerome scored 40 points for Memphis, but his final shot missed as the Pelicans escaped with a one-point road victory.
Jeremiah Fears delivers the winning free throws
The decisive moment came with 7.3 seconds left in overtime. Jeremiah Fears converted two free throws to put New Orleans in front, giving Memphis one final chance to respond.
Jerome had an opportunity to win it with a 15-foot attempt in the closing seconds, but the shot missed. The final score remained 135–134, sealing the Pelicans’ third consecutive victory.
Zion Williamson and Karlo Matkovic lead New Orleans
Williamson finished with 25 points, including nine in overtime, to help the Pelicans withstand Memphis’ late push. Karlo Matkovic matched him with a career-high 25 points, while Derik Queen added 20.
New Orleans entered the game without starting guard Dejounte Murray, who missed his third straight game for personal reasons. Yves Missi and Jordan Poole were also unavailable through injury.
Ty Jerome scores 40 as Memphis rallies
Jerome led all scorers with 40 points and helped Memphis force overtime. He scored nine consecutive points in the final 1:43 of regulation, bringing the Grizzlies level at 124–124.
Cameron Boozer added 18 points and Jaylen Wells scored 16 for Memphis. Despite the comeback and the home crowd’s energy, the Grizzlies could not complete the turnaround in overtime.
Ty Jerome: 40 points · Zion Williamson: 25 points · Karlo Matkovic: career-high 25 points · Jeremiah Fears: two decisive free throws with 7.3 seconds left in OT.
Grizzlies’ perfect start comes to an end
Memphis entered the contest as the NBA’s last unbeaten team. The defeat ended a six-game winning streak and moved the Grizzlies to 6–1. Their 6–0 start had matched the best season-opening run in franchise history.
The Pelicans, meanwhile, secured their third straight win and improved to 3–4. The result gives New Orleans a confidence boost after a challenging opening stretch.
What comes next for both teams?
New Orleans is scheduled to host the Utah Jazz on Wednesday night, while Memphis will welcome the Indiana Pacers. Both teams now turn quickly to their next fixtures after an intense overtime contest.
Official box score and game recap
Final score and player statistics checked against the NBA game summary and Associated Press recap, November 2, 2026.
