The NBA regular season is in full swing, and one of the most anticipated matchups of the week pits the Memphis Grizzlies against the Phoenix Suns. Scheduled for February 25, 2025, the game is set to ignite the FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee, tipping off at 8:00 PM ET (10:00 PM Brasília time). Both teams are navigating different paths in the Western Conference, yet they share the same goal of solidifying their standings and pushing toward the playoffs. With Ja Morant leading the Grizzlies and Devin Booker spearheading the Suns, this clash brings together talent, rivalry, and tactical strategies that could shape the trajectory of both franchises. For fans in Brazil and beyond, multiple live broadcast options ensure no one misses the decisive moments of this showdown.
The Memphis Grizzlies enter the game riding a strong campaign, holding the second spot in the Western Conference with a 38-20 record so far. Coached by Taylor Jenkins, the team has excelled with its defensive consistency and collective performance, particularly after a convincing 116-108 win over the Suns on January 26. Meanwhile, the Phoenix Suns, led by Mike Budenholzer, are grappling with an inconsistent season, posting a 26-26 record that places them tenth in the standings. Their recent 122-102 loss to the Denver Nuggets exposed defensive vulnerabilities, worsened by the absences of Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal, both sidelined with injuries.
Basketball enthusiasts in Brazil can catch every play live through the NBA League Pass, the league’s official streaming platform that broadcasts all season games. Additionally, ESPN 2 will air the matchup with Portuguese narration and commentary, offering a complete viewing experience starting at 10:00 PM Brasília time. The ball tips off in a game expected to be fiercely contested, with the Grizzlies aiming to maintain their recent edge over the Suns while the visitors look to pull off an upset on the road.
Broadcast and tickets: how to catch every moment
Watching the Grizzlies take on the Suns is straightforward for Brazilian fans. The game will be available live on the NBA League Pass, a streaming service offering high-quality access via subscription on its website or app, compatible with smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs. ESPN 2 provides another option, delivering real-time coverage tailored for Portuguese-speaking audiences starting at 10:00 PM Brasília time. For radio listeners, Memphis’ 92.9 ESPN will offer live updates, while the Grizzlies’ official X account promises to keep fans engaged with highlights and behind-the-scenes content.
For those eager to experience the action in person, tickets remain available through the NBA’s official website and Ticketmaster, with prices varying by section. The FedExForum, which seats around 18,000 fans, anticipates a packed house as the game kicks off a five-game homestand for the Grizzlies. Weather forecasts for Memphis on February 25 predict a chilly night with temperatures hovering around 23°F (-5°C), but the atmosphere inside the arena is sure to heat up with the crowd’s energy.
Probable lineups and key players
The Memphis Grizzlies are expected to field their full-strength lineup, capitalizing on their strong season form. The probable starting five includes Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, Marcus Smart, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Steven Adams. Morant, averaging 20.8 points per game, is the heartbeat of the offense, renowned for his explosiveness and clutch decision-making. Bane, with 22 points per game, and Jackson Jr., the team’s rebounding leader, round out a formidable starting unit. In their last meeting with the Suns on January 26, Morant dropped 27 points, while Bane added 25, showcasing the team’s offensive firepower.
The Phoenix Suns, however, face lineup challenges with key injuries. Kevin Durant, nursing a calf issue, and Bradley Beal, dealing with a knee problem, remain questionable, placing extra pressure on Devin Booker. The likely starters are Booker, Eric Gordon, Grayson Allen, Josh Okogie, and Jusuf Nurkic. Booker, averaging 24 points per game, led the Suns with 24 points in their recent loss to the Nuggets but lacked sufficient support. In the January 26 matchup against the Grizzlies, he scored 23 points, yet the Suns fell 116-108.
Head-to-head history and recent form
Recent history tilts in favor of the Grizzlies. In the last five meetings, Memphis has won three, including both games this season: 116-108 on January 26 and 123-115 on December 7, 2024. The Suns, however, claimed victory on April 8, 2024, with a 117-105 scoreline. These encounters highlight the rivalry’s competitiveness, often decided in the final minutes, fueling anticipation for the upcoming clash.
Looking at the teams’ last five games, the Grizzlies display resilience. Their win over the Suns on January 26 preceded a 112-98 victory against the Toronto Raptors, though losses to the Denver Nuggets (108-104) and Los Angeles Lakers (120-115) followed before a rebound win over the Portland Trail Blazers (125-110). The Suns, meanwhile, have been inconsistent, beating the Utah Jazz (119-113) and Golden State Warriors (113-105) but falling to the Nuggets (122-102), Sacramento Kings (115-109), and Grizzlies (116-108).
Officiating and game trivia
The matchup will be overseen by a seasoned NBA officiating crew led by James Capers, known for his composure in high-stakes games. Sean Wright and Mark Lindsay round out the trio, ensuring fair calls in what could be a tightly contested battle. The officials’ names are typically finalized hours before tip-off, but the selection reflects the game’s significance this season.
Some intriguing tidbits add flavor to the matchup. The FedExForum, home to the Grizzlies since 2004, is famed for its electric atmosphere and has hosted memorable comebacks. Ja Morant boasts an impressive average of 25 points across his last five games against the Suns. For Phoenix, Devin Booker aims to surpass the 30-point mark against Memphis for the third time this season, a feat he has yet to achieve in 2025.
Busy schedule ahead for both teams
The game kicks off a packed stretch for both squads. The Grizzlies remain at home for their next few games, facing tough Western Conference foes. Here’s their upcoming slate:
- February 28: Grizzlies vs New York Knicks, 8:00 PM ET
- March 3: Grizzlies vs Atlanta Hawks, 8:00 PM ET
- March 5: Grizzlies vs Denver Nuggets, 9:00 PM ET
The Suns face a similarly demanding lineup, testing their ability to climb the standings:
- February 27: Suns vs Los Angeles Clippers, 9:00 PM ET
- March 1: Suns vs Houston Rockets, 8:00 PM ET
- March 4: Suns vs Dallas Mavericks, 9:00 PM ET
These games will be pivotal for their playoff aspirations.
Predictions and what to watch for
Analysts favor the Grizzlies, with betting odds at 1.67 for a Memphis win compared to 2.17 for the Suns, per Betnacional. Their defensive tenacity and home advantage bolster their case, though Devin Booker’s individual brilliance could keep it close if Phoenix finds its rhythm. Expect a high-scoring affair, given both teams’ recent averages above 110 points per game.
The Suns’ missing stars limit their depth, but Booker has proven he can carry the load on big nights. For the Grizzlies, maintaining defensive intensity and leveraging Morant’s fast-break opportunities will be key. The matchup promises a tactical chess match between Jenkins and Budenholzer.
Spotlight on scorers and the crowd
Ja Morant and Devin Booker are the marquee names to watch. Morant’s playmaking and drives fuel the Grizzlies, while Booker’s mid-range and long-distance shooting anchor the Suns. Desmond Bane and Jusuf Nurkic could also sway the outcome with strong two-way play.
The FedExForum crowd will play a starring role, rallying the Grizzlies toward another win over their rivals. With freezing 23°F (-5°C) weather outside, the indoor vibe will contrast with the passion of the fans. For Brazilian viewers, February 25 offers a prime chance to witness top-tier basketball, with accessible broadcasts and a game brimming with intensity.
