## Grizzlies Extend Sixers' Struggles With Fourth Loss In Five Games
The Memphis Grizzlies extended the Philadelphia 76ers' struggles on Tuesday night, handing them their fourth loss in five games with a 116-100 victory.
Defensive Struggles
The Sixers' defense, which had been one of the league's best in recent weeks, collapsed in the second half. The Grizzlies shot 56.3% from the field in the third quarter and 60.0% in the fourth.
"We just didn't get stops when we needed them," said Sixers coach Brett Brown. "They made shots, and we didn't."
Embiid's Absence
The Sixers were missing their star center Joel Embiid, who sat out with a knee injury. Embiid is averaging 26.6 points and 13.3 rebounds per game this season, and his absence was a major blow to the team's defense.
"He's our anchor," said Sixers forward Tobias Harris. "When he's not in there, it's a lot harder for us to get stops."
Morant's Dominance
The Grizzlies were led by Ja Morant, who finished with 23 points and 10 assists. Morant was aggressive from the start, attacking the rim and setting up his teammates for easy baskets.
"He's a special player," said Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins. "He's got that winning mentality, and he makes everyone around him better."
Conclusion
The Sixers are now 33-24 this season, and they have lost four of their last five games. They will need to find a way to fix their defensive struggles if they want to make a deep playoff run.