Memphis Grizzlies Stun San Antonio Spurs to Take 3-1 Series Lead

The San Antonio Spurs finished the NBA regular season with the second best record in the league, finishing just behind the Chicago Bulls. The next game that they play against the Memphis Grizzlies could be their last in this year's playoffs. After entering the postseason as a one seed they are now losing their series to the Grizzlies and only a game away from elimination.

On Monday night it looked like the Spurs would be able to tie the series at 2-2 and make a statement against the underdog Grizzlies. They lead by two at halftime and looked to carry momentum to the second half. After the third quarter and a 30-15 run, the Grizzlies were well on their way to a 104-86 victory and advancing into the second round.

If the Grizzlies manage to win the series it would be only the second time an eight seed beat a one seed since  the NBA expanded to the best of seven series. They have already made history by winning the franchise's first playoff game and the franchise's first home playoff game.

Tony Parker led the Spurs on Monday night with 23 points but only four of those came in the second half. Manu Ginobili had 14 points, Gary Neal added 11 and George Hill and Tiago Splitter both had 10. On his 35th birthday Tim Duncan only managed six points.

Though they lead the series Shane Battier said he'd feel more comfortable against anyone but the Spurs. "They are very capable of winning three straight in a playoff series. All we've done is held homecourt. Now, these guys should expect the toughest game of their career, come Wednesday."