Jerome’s 45 points lead Grizzlies past Jazz in opener

The Memphis Grizzlies opened their season with a 123-103 victory over the Utah Jazz on Wednesday, led by Ty Jerome’s 45 points, a franchise record for a season opener. Jerome shot 17-for-25 from the field, including five 3-pointers, and added seven rebounds and six assists. His total surpassed the previous Memphis opener record of 44 points, set by Ja Morant in 2020. Jerome’s previous career high was 33 points. Memphis took control after halftime, opening the third quarter with an 18-4 run that stretched its lead to 27 points. The Grizzlies had led 64-51 at the break and maintained a margin of at least 15 points throughout the fourth quarter. Cameron Boozer, Memphis’ third overall pick in the 2026 draft, recorded seven points, 11 rebounds and five assists in his regular-season debut. He made two of 15 shots, including none of six attempts from 3-point range. For Utah, Keyonte George led the team with 22 points, while Lauri Markkanen scored 18. Jerami Grant scored 15 points for Memphis, and GG Jackson and Jaylen Wells added 12 each. Jaren Jackson Jr., who was traded to Utah in February, scored 15 points before fouling out in the fourth quarter. The Grizzlies outrebounded the...