MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Atlanta Hawks showed resilience, poise, and just enough late-game execution to slip past the Memphis Grizzlies, 124–122, grinding out one of their most satisfying road wins of the season. Atlanta
After absorbing an early punch from a fired-up FedExForum crowd, Atlanta settled in, leaned on its versatility, and delivered when it mattered most exactly the kind of performance Hawks fans have been waiting to see after being on a four-game losing streak.
Atlanta was powered by a monster all-around night from Jalen Johnson, who was everywhere on the floor. Johnson attacked mismatches, cleaned the glass, and facilitated offense in transition, finishing just shy of a triple-double with 32 points, 15 rebounds, and eight assists, setting the tone for the Hawks’ aggressive approach.
“I thought our group showed real toughness tonight. Memphis made multiple runs, the crowd was into it, and we didn’t blink. Jalen set the tone with his force and competitiveness, and we trusted each other late. Those are the kinds of wins that build you — especially on the road,” said head coach Quinn Snyder.
Whenever Memphis threatened to seize control, Johnson answered whether with a strong finish at the rim or a timely defensive play that swung momentum back Atlanta’s way. His clutch drive late in the fourth quarter ultimately sealed the victory.
The Hawks didn’t rely on just one option. Nickeil – Alexander- Walker orchestrated the offense and made key plays down the stretch, while Atlanta’s supporting cast chipped in with timely shooting and interior toughness. The Hawks consistently punished Memphis on second-chance opportunities and executed with greater composure in late-clock situations.
Inside, Atlanta’s bigs held their ground, limiting easy looks and forcing Memphis into contested finishes a subtle but decisive factor in a game decided by just two points. Onyeka Okongwu delivered 18 points, nine rebounds, and two blocks, while Luke Kennard spaced the floor with 18 points, including four three-pointers.
Memphis countered with strong production from Ja Morant, who pressured Atlanta’s defense all night with his speed and playmaking. Morant finished with 23 points and 12 assists as the Grizzlies surged in the third quarter and carried momentum into the fourth.
But late missed opportunities and Atlanta’s calm execution at the free-throw line proved costly. Memphis even held a slim lead late in the final period, yet a desperation three from Morant at the buzzer rimmed out, sealing the Hawks’ hard-earned victory.
Atlanta is 21-25 on the season as they are currently in 10th place in the Eastern Conference.