Hustle fall to Magic despite strong defensive effort

The Memphis Hustle, the Grizzlies’ NBA G League affiliate, fell to the Lakeland Magic 97-87 on Sunday afternoon inside HP Field House.

Memphis got off to a sluggish start offensively in the opening quarter, turning the ball over eight times and giving Lakeland nine points going the other way. The Hustle limited the Magic to just 39.1 percent shooting in the first period to keep the game at 21-18 following the first 12 minutes. The Magic broke the game open in the second quarter scoring 17 of the first 24 points in the period. Lakeland stretched their lead to as many as 18 points in the first half and limited Memphis to just 36 first-half points. The Magic got 38 points from their bench in the opening half on their way to a 54-36 halftime lead. Lakeland outshot Memphis 47.7 percent to 32.6 percent in the first two quarters.

Both teams traded baskets in the third quarter, leading to a 74-55 deficit for Memphis heading into the final quarter of play. The Hustle put together their best offensive quarter in the final 12 minutes, capped off by a 13-2 run to close the game, but it would not be enough as Lakeland held on comfortably, 97-87. Memphis outrebounded Lakeland 52-46, but the Hustle’s 23 turnovers for 30 points would prove too much to overcome. The two teams’ bench units combined for 110 total points. 

Ahmad Caver led Memphis with 16 points, six rebounds and two assists on an efficient 7-of-11 shooting night. Bennie Boatwright tallied 14 points, six rebounds and an assist in 30 minutes off the bench. David Stockton added 11 points, three rebounds and two steals on 5-of-11 shooting. Tyrell Terry pitched in 10 points, two rebounds and an assist as Memphis fell to 1-2 on the season. 

Mamadi Diakite posted a double-double with a game-high 20 points (9-14 FG), 10 rebounds, two assists and two blocks in 24 minutes off the bench to lead Lakeland. Andrew Rowsey notched 12 points, eight assists and two steals in 27 minutes. Billy Garrett, Devin Cannady and Robert Franks each scored 12 points apiece for Lakeland as the Magic improved to 2-1 with the victory.

The Hustle will return to the court tomorrow morning to face the Salt Lake City Stars at 10 a.m. Central time inside AdventHealth Arena. Fans can watch the game on GrindCityMedia.com or stream it on ESPN+.

Memphis Hustle release