Luka Dončić Shines as Lakers Edge Grizzlies in NBA Cup Thriller
The NBA Cup 2025 got off to a fiery start, and all eyes were on Los Angeles — where Luka Dončić once again reminded everyone why he’s one of the most electrifying players in basketball right now. The Lakers battled their way to a 117–112 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies, in what turned out to be a thrilling start to the in-season tournament.
Now, it’s still a bit surreal to think that Dončić is wearing Lakers gold after that blockbuster trade. But if anyone had doubts, he’s putting them to rest night after night. Despite missing the last three games due to finger and leg injuries, Luka came roaring back with an incredible 44-point performance. And that wasn’t just another big night — this marked his third straight 40-plus point game to start the season. Only Wilt Chamberlain has done that before, and we’re talking about the early 1960s Wilt — that’s how special this start is.
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Memphis threw everything they had at Dončić. Double teams, quick switches, zone looks — but nothing seemed to slow him down. He controlled the floor with his vision, timing, and strength, even pulling down 12 rebounds and dishing out six assists. His 16-point burst in the third quarter flipped the game on its head after the Grizzlies had built a small lead before halftime.
The Grizzlies weren’t pushovers, though. They went on an impressive 33–11 run to end the first half, splashing nine three-pointers and showing why they’re always a threat when they catch fire from deep. But once the Lakers regained momentum, their depth and discipline started to show. Austin Reaves, even on an off shooting night, chipped in 21 points and hit every one of his nine free throws.
Ja Morant, on the other hand, had a rough outing. He just couldn’t find his rhythm, finishing with only eight points on 3-for-14 shooting. The Memphis bench tried to pick up the slack with 45 points, but the Lakers’ composure down the stretch sealed the deal.
Without LeBron James, who’s still recovering from a sciatica issue, Los Angeles has quietly gone 4–2 to start the season. And with Luka playing at this level — well, it feels like the Lakers have a new engine driving them forward.
It’s early days in the NBA Cup, but this first night already delivered everything fans could’ve asked for: clutch moments, wild scoring runs, and a superstar putting on a masterclass. If this is the tone-setter for the tournament, basketball fans are in for a very entertaining November.
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