Grizzlies learning how to close out contests

La Bomba · Apr 7, 2009

Rudy Gay's response was quick and somewhat comical when told of the numbers.

The Grizzlies are 9-9 this season in games decided by five points or less.

"At least," the Grizzlies' forward said, "we're .500 in something."

At 22-54, the Griz have equaled their win total from each of the past two seasons and their streak of missing the playoffs is now at three years to match a three-year postseason run from 2004-06.

But there is optimism in how the Grizzlies have played heading into their game tonight against the Portland Trail Blazers.

Set aside team building and player development for a moment and delve into the Grizzlies' four-game winning streak. Because they've won each of those contests by five points you can add learning how to close out games to the short list of accomplishments as this season winds down.

Last season, Memphis owned a 5-15 record in games decided by five points or less.

"The best compliment was (Dallas forward) Dirk Nowitzki saying 'We couldn't stop them.' It means we're executing," Griz coach Lionel Hollins said, referring to his team's victory over Dallas last Friday. "We've spent a lot more time working on last-minute stuff and getting the guys to understand how important it is. Most young guys don't understand how important those possessions are coming down the stretch. But obviously, we've gotten better."

The reasons vary for the Grizzlies' ability to hang on in the final minutes of the fourth quarter.

Point guard Mike Conley pointed to improved discipline.

"Guys are trusting each other more. We're confident in each other's abilities," Conley said. "There's more attention to detail. We've gotten beat a lot in the last five or six minutes of games because of critical possessions. We've learned from those games, and guys are concentrating more. Guys are taking it more seriously, and going out and executing."
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"At least we're .500 in something."

La Bomba · Apr 7, 2009

Funny that the day I post this we give up like a 20 point lead. I don't care at this point. All it means is more ping pong balls.

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Grizzlies learning how to close out contests

La Bomba The Future

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Grizzlies learning how to close out contests

La Bomba The Future

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