After a strong first quarter, Memphis held the Kings to just 15 points in the second frame, outscoring Sacramento by 13 to take a 16-point advantage into the break. In the first half of play, Sactown had 12 turnovers, leading to 19 Grizzlies points and allowing the home team to lead by as many as 21.
The Kings quickly rebounded from their double-digit deficit in the third quarter, beginning the frame on an 8-0 run and outscoring the opposition by 11 to pull within five heading into the fourth quarter.
DeMarcus Cousins scored 12 points on 5-of-7 shooting during the third, while Quincy Acy, Marco Belinelli and Darren Collison each added five of their own.
Both teams traded baskets in the final frame, and Sacramento earned its biggest lead of the game at three with 5:55 remaining, but Memphis responded with a 10-0 run to shut the gate on a comeback.
- Belinelli scored all 16 of his points in the second half, shooting 7-of-11 and 2-of-5 from downtown.
- Cousins’ 18-point, 16-rebound effort marked his 36th double-double of the season and fourth straight.
- Rajon Rondo ended the night with 17 assists, marking the 40th time this season Rondo has recorded 10 or more assists. Making him the Sacramento era leader for the most such games in a single season.
The Kings will continue their road trip in Dallas for a rematch against the Mavericks on Thursday night. Fans wishing to view the game can tune in via CSN California or Sports 1140 KHTK.
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