The Philadelphia 76ers came out on top of a Sunday evening meeting with the Memphis Grizzlies, by a score 103-95. The Sixers lead for a large portion of the game, and appeared to be the superior team for much of the night. However, it took until the closing seconds for fans to be able to feel confident in impending victory. Whenever the Sixers seemed to be putting the game out of reach, the Grizz would claw their way back.

At one point, with about 50 seconds remaining, the Sixers new Mr. Clutch (Jimmy Butler) hit a step back jumper to grow the Sixers lead to eight. It felt like it could be the straw to break the camel’s back. But not for this Memphis squad, as just seconds later Marc Gasol drew an and-one. The foul shot rimmed out to Jaren Jackson Jr. who went right back up with the ball to give the Grizzlies a four point possession. With only 24 seconds left, Memphis had the game within four points, 99-95 in favor of the Sixers. Some pesky defense from the Sixers would freeze the Grizz on 95 though, as the Sixers rode intentional fouls to their 103-95 win.

Ben Simmons stood out in the game, and looked aggressive in every aspect. Early and often, Simmons took Kyle Anderson into the paint and Simmons had his way. Simmons racked up 19 points, 12 rebounds and 6 assists. It was one of the more encouraging outings for Simmons on the season.

The remaining two members of the Sixers big three had less-than-impressive outings. Jimmy Butler totaled 21 points, but it took him 17 shots. Marc Gasol again kept Joel Embiid in check from a scoring standpoint, as Joel made just 4 of his 13 field goals. Despite an off-night for JoJo offensively, he was plus-minus best amongst the starters at +13 — a testament to his defense in this game.

The Grizzlies didn’t have too many bright spots tonight outside of JaMychal Green, who had 14 points on 6 of 10 shooting, 7 rebounds and four steals. As a team, Memphis shot 41.8% from the floor and played undisciplined defense resulting in 24 personal fouls (to be fair, there was some questionable officiating).

The Sixers’ current hot streak has had some question marks around it, given the competition they’ve faced. Tonight, the Sixers got themselves a good win over a quality team. Butler, Embiid, Simmons and the crew still don’t seem to be firing on all cylinders offensively yet, but they’re making it work.

Box Score