Summary of what happened in the NBA on January 7, 2025
In this article, Uduak Oscar of SPORTSRATION presents a detailed summary and thoughts on the NBA games decided on Tuesday, January 7, 2025.
Trail Blazers 115, Pistons 118
In a thrilling encounter, the Detroit Pistons sealed a narrow win over the Portland Trail Blazers. After a solid start, the Blazers’ Anfernee Simons exploded for 36 points and 9 assists, but it was Malik Beasley’s timely steal that helped the Pistons edge ahead. Cade Cunningham’s 32 points and 9 assists were crucial in the victory.
Uduak’s Thoughts: This was a classic example of clutch defense. The Pistons may not have been the favorites, but they showed heart when it mattered most. Portland’s offensive firepower was there, but their defense left them exposed in crunch time.
Suns 109, 76ers 99
Phoenix ran out winners in Philadelphia, coming from behind to finish strong. Bradley Beal contributed 25 points to secure the win for the Suns. Tyrese Maxey’s 31 points and 10 assists kept the 76ers in the game, but Phoenix’s collective effort sealed the deal.
Uduak’s Thoughts: Maxey did everything he could to keep Philly in the hunt, but Phoenix showed they can adapt and close out games in tough situations. Beal’s leadership is proving essential for the Suns.
Pacers 113, Nets 99
The Indiana Pacers had an impressive road win over the Brooklyn Nets. Tyrese Haliburton, with 23 points and 8 assists, spearheaded the attack as Indiana pulled away in the second half. Day’Ron Sharpe’s double-double wasn’t enough to prevent the Nets’ defeat.
Uduak’s Thoughts: Haliburton is showing why he’s one of the best young point guards in the league. The Pacers look well-drilled, and Brooklyn’s struggles continue with defensive lapses.
Magic 103, Knicks 94
The Orlando Magic held off the New York Knicks to secure a solid road win. Cole Anthony’s 24 points were pivotal as Orlando extended their lead in the fourth. Josh Hart fought hard for the Knicks with a double-double, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Magic.
Uduak’s Thoughts: Orlando continues to surprise with consistency, while New York can’t seem to find a rhythm this season. The Knicks’ depth issues are becoming more apparent.
Bucks 128, Raptors 104
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s triple-double of 13 assists, 11 rebounds, and 11 points led the Milwaukee Bucks to a dominant win over the Toronto Raptors. Damian Lillard also made an impact with 25 points. Despite R.J. Barrett’s 25 points, Toronto couldn’t hang with the Bucks’ offensive flow.
Uduak’s Thoughts: Giannis showed why he’s one of the most complete players in the league. Milwaukee needed this win, and they got it in style. Toronto, on the other hand, is stuck in a rut with little momentum.
Bulls 114, Spurs 110
Chicago edged San Antonio in a high-scoring affair. Zach LaVine’s 35 points and 10 rebounds powered the Bulls, while Victor Wembanyama, with 23 points and 14 rebounds, did his best to keep San Antonio in the game.
Uduak’s Thoughts: LaVine was a star, but let’s give credit to the Spurs for hanging tough against a talented Bulls squad. Wembanyama’s ceiling remains so high, even if the Spurs couldn’t get the W today.
Grizzlies 119, Mavericks 104
Memphis put on a dominant second-half display to overpower Dallas. Jaren Jackson Jr. was the standout performer, scoring 35 points and grabbing 13 rebounds. Derek Lively II showed up with a double-double, but it wasn’t enough to get past the Grizzlies.
Uduak’s Thoughts: Jackson was absolutely outstanding, and Memphis showed why they’re a dangerous playoff contender. Dallas has the talent, but they lacked consistency when it mattered most.
Timberwolves 108, Clippers 106
Anthony Edwards dropped 37 points as the Minnesota Timberwolves narrowly defeated the Los Angeles Clippers. Ivica Zubac contributed a double-double for the Clippers, but the Timberwolves’ grit was on display as they edged out LA.
Uduak’s Thoughts: Edwards was clutch, but credit to the Timberwolves for digging deep in a tight game. The Clippers are having an inconsistent season, and this game was a reminder of their struggles.
Kings 123, Heat 118 (2OT)
In a dramatic double-overtime thriller, the Sacramento Kings outlasted the Miami Heat. De’Aaron Fox delivered late-game heroics, and Domantas Sabonis posted a monster stat line with 21 points, 18 rebounds, and 11 assists.
Uduak’s Thoughts: This game was a test of endurance, and Sacramento proved they have the stamina. Miami’s Jaquez Jr. had an impressive triple-double, but the Heat couldn’t get over the finish line in this exhausting battle.
January 7, 2025, delivered some truly exciting and unpredictable moments. While teams like the Bucks and Pacers flexed their muscle, it was the games that went down to the wire—like the Kings’ 2OT win and the Pistons’ clutch steal—that showcased the thrilling drama we love about basketball.
