Rockets vs. Grizzlies on NBA where to watch

The highly anticipated matchup between the Houston Rockets and Memphis Grizzlies, scheduled for today, January 13, 2025, at 10 PM (Brasília time) at the FedExForum in Memphis, is generating excitement among basketball fans. With both teams vying for prominence in the highly competitive Western Conference of the NBA, the game promises to be a spectacle on par with the season’s best matchups. The atmosphere is set to be electric, with a sold-out crowd and fans eager to watch top talents on the court.

The Rockets come into this game with a mix of promising recent performances despite a challenging campaign. Led by head coach Ime Udoka, the team boasts a combination of rising stars and seasoned players, including Fred VanVleet and Jalen Green. On the other hand, the Grizzlies, coached by Taylor Jenkins, are determined to maintain their home dominance, leveraging their strong defensive presence anchored by standout players like Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr.

Beyond the tactical clash between the teams, individual and collective storylines add depth to this encounter. The recent head-to-head history slightly favors the Rockets, who have won four of their last five games against the Grizzlies. However, playing on their home turf with an enthusiastic fan base, Memphis will look to tilt the scales in their favor, making this game unpredictable and even more enticing.

Where to watch the game live

NBA fans can catch the action live via NBA League Pass, the league’s official platform that provides comprehensive coverage of all games throughout the season. Coverage will begin ahead of tip-off, allowing viewers to follow pre-game analysis, lineup confirmations, and key insights.

Probable lineups for the game

The anticipated lineups highlight a mix of experience and youth in both squads. For the Rockets, Fred VanVleet will lead the backcourt, alongside Dillon Brooks and Jalen Green on the wings. Jabari Smith Jr. and Alperen Sengun are set to fortify the paint, combining defensive resilience and offensive versatility. The Grizzlies, on the other hand, are expected to rely on Ja Morant as the orchestrator, supported by Desmond Bane, Ziaire Williams, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Steven Adams, forming a balanced and dynamic lineup.

The coaches and their strategies

This matchup also showcases a clash of coaching philosophies between Ime Udoka and Taylor Jenkins. Udoka, renowned for his tactical acumen and commitment to developing young talent, aims to transform the Rockets into a competitive force over the long term. Jenkins, in contrast, focuses on team cohesion and the physical play style that defines the Grizzlies, emphasizing intense defense and quick transitions.

Head-to-head history between Rockets and Grizzlies

The historical record leans in favor of the Rockets, who have secured several memorable victories over the Grizzlies in recent years. In their last five meetings, Houston emerged victorious in four games. Notably, they dominated Memphis with a commanding 128–108 win in October 2024. In their most recent clash, on January 9, 2025, the Rockets triumphed again with a narrow 119–115 victory, reinforcing their recent edge over the Grizzlies.

Recent performances of both teams

The Rockets have experienced a mixed start to the year, alternating between wins and losses. After a strong 120–115 victory against the Oklahoma City Thunder, they stumbled in games against the San Antonio Spurs and Denver Nuggets but regained form with a win over the Sacramento Kings. Meanwhile, the Grizzlies have also shown inconsistency. They celebrated wins against formidable opponents like the Golden State Warriors and Dallas Mavericks but struggled against the Lakers and Suns.

Key individual performances

Ja Morant continues to be the Grizzlies’ standout player, averaging an impressive 27.5 points per game this season. His leadership during critical moments makes him indispensable for the team’s success. On the Rockets’ side, Jalen Green has been solidifying his position as one of the NBA’s most promising young stars, contributing 22.3 points per game. Additionally, center Alperen Sengun has excelled in the paint, averaging 10.4 rebounds and 4.8 assists per game, showcasing his versatility and tactical importance.

Interesting facts that make the game unmissable

• This will be the second meeting between the two teams in 2025, giving the Grizzlies a chance to avenge their previous loss.
• The Rockets have been surprisingly strong on the road, winning 60% of their away games this season, one of the top performances in the Western Conference.
• The FedExForum will be packed with over 18,000 fans, reflecting the massive anticipation surrounding the Rockets-Grizzlies rivalry.

Tickets and the stadium atmosphere

The FedExForum, located in the heart of Memphis, is known for its vibrant and passionate atmosphere, especially during high-stakes games. With a capacity exceeding 18,000 seats, the stadium is expected to deliver an electrifying environment. Tickets were sold out days before the match, further emphasizing the game’s significance.

Weather forecast for the event

The forecast for Memphis tonight predicts clear skies and a temperature of around 23°F (-5°C). Despite the freezing weather, fans are willing to brave the cold to witness this star-studded matchup live and in person.

Referees and game conduct

The officiating crew for the game includes experienced NBA referees, ensuring fair play and professionalism throughout. In high-intensity games like this, the role of the referees is critical to maintaining discipline and avoiding controversies.

What to expect from this major showdown

The Rockets-Grizzlies battle is expected to be decided by fine margins. While the Grizzlies rely on Ja Morant’s brilliance and Jaren Jackson Jr.’s defensive capabilities, the Rockets will bank on Jalen Green’s offensive efficiency and Alperen Sengun’s court vision. With both teams evenly matched, fans can anticipate a thrilling game that keeps them on edge until the final buzzer.

Key aspects to watch for

• The head-to-head duel between Ja Morant and Jalen Green, two of the league’s most electrifying players.
• The paint battle between Alperen Sengun and Steven Adams, a physical clash likely to dictate the rebound and game tempo.
• The bench depth of both teams, with key reserves potentially influencing the outcome.

Season outlook following the game

While the outcome won’t determine either team’s ultimate fate in the season, it will provide critical momentum for the winner. A victory could solidify confidence and serve as a turning point in their playoff aspirations.