Kiwi Steven Adams has had an impressive outing in his return to the starting line-up, but Memphis Grizzlies couldn't stave off a late Golden State Warriors run to steal game four of their Western Conference semi-final playoff series 101-98.
The 28-year-old has scarcely featured for the Grizzlies during the post-season, with coach Taylor Jenkins favouring a small-ball line-up during their opening-round win over Minnesota Timberwolves and through the first three games of their series with the Warriors.
But with star point guard Ja Morant ruled out with injury, Jenkins went searching for answers, calling on Adams to resume his place in the starting five, where he's spent most of the season.
While Adams couldn't prevent his team falling into a 3-1 hole, he made an instant impact at both ends of the court, posting a hefty double-double of 10 points and 15 rebounds.
Adams clogged the paint effectively to limit the Warriors guards' penetration, while creating several second-chance points through his trademark work on the offensive glass, where he grabbed six of his boards.
With both sides struggling from beyond the arc, the Grizzlies held the lead until the final minute of the contest, when Steph Curry took over the game.
The superstar guard scored 18 of his 31 points in the fourth quarter, including some critical - if questionable - free throws to clinch victory.
Forward Jaren Jackson Jr was the standout for the Grizzlies with 21 points, five blocks and two steals.
The Grizzlies return home for game five on Thursday (NZ time), where they'll need to win to keep the best-of-seven series alive.
