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In a thrilling matchup on Wednesday night, Ziaire Williams made a remarkable return to Memphis, leading the Brooklyn Nets to a 119-106 victory over the Grizzlies. The game marked a significant moment for Williams, who was traded to the Nets earlier this season as part of a salary dump.
His performance not only showcased his skills but also highlighted his emotional connection to his former team.
Williams’ impactful performance
Williams, who was a lottery pick for Memphis in 2021, scored 17 points on an impressive 6-for-10 shooting from the field.
His contributions went beyond scoring; he also recorded a career-high four steals, turning three of them into fast-break dunks. The fourth steal led to a crucial assist on Dennis Schroder’s three-pointer in the fourth quarter, further solidifying his role in the game.
“It was a weird feeling just being out there on the other side,” Williams reflected after the game. “But nah, I was definitely happy I was able to talk some smack and more importantly get the win.”
Team dynamics and coaching praise
Nets coach Jordi Fernandez expressed his pride in Williams’ performance, stating, “He made a statement, and I’m happy for him. He played really, really hard. He made winning play after winning play after winning play.” This sentiment was echoed by teammate Dennis Schroder, who noted the importance of winning against a former team.
Schroder himself had a standout game, scoring a career-high 33 points, becoming the first player in franchise history to achieve 25 or more points, five or more assists, and five or more three-pointers in three consecutive games.
Defensive efforts and team strategy
The Nets’ defense played a crucial role in their victory, forcing the Grizzlies into 22 turnovers and capitalizing on those mistakes to score 31 points. Despite struggling with fouls throughout the season, the team showed improvement, committing only 15 fouls after a rough start. Fernandez noted, “First half we were in a good place, but we gave up 20 free throws. Then that second half, 44 points allowed, only nine free throws.” This adjustment was key in maintaining their lead and securing the win.
Looking ahead
As the season progresses, Williams’ resurgence and the Nets’ overall performance will be critical for their playoff aspirations. With players like Schroder and Williams stepping up, the team is finding its rhythm. The Nets will need to continue building on this momentum, focusing on both offensive efficiency and defensive discipline to compete effectively in the league.
